Introduction

When winter rolls around, many turtle owners may find themselves facing a new set of challenges: caring for their hibernating pets. Turtles are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. As temperatures drop, their metabolic rate slows down, and they go into a state called brumation – which is similar to hibernation. In this article, we will discuss how to properly care for a hibernating turtle to ensure its health and well-being throughout the colder months.

Preparing Your Turtle for Brumation

1. Gradually adjust temperatures and lighting: Begin by slowing lowering your turtle’s enclosure temperature over several weeks. Simultaneously, decrease the amount of daylight hours it receives each day. This will mimic natural conditions and prepare your turtle for brumation.

2. Provide a proper hiding place: Turtles in the wild will naturally seek out a suitable place to brumate; offering your pet an appropriate hideaway within its enclosure will help facilitate this process.

3. Stop feeding: When temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), it’s crucial to stop feeding your turtle. Dropping temperatures slow down its metabolism, making food digestion difficult and potentially dangerous.

4. Monitor health: Prepare your turtle for brumation by ensuring it is healthy beforehand. A sick turtle should not be allowed to brumate, as it may exacerbate its condition.