The eastern box turtle represents holding on and surviving, sticking its neck out, which led to its status as a state symbol for NC and Tennessee.

The eastern box turtle represents holding on and surviving, sticking its neck out, which led to its status as a state symbol for NC and Tennessee.

They’re an astounding symbol of the awe that the natural world can bring us. That’s why so many people come to the Smokies — and what an amazing mascot of that.” Eastern box turtles, including the ...