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Question
My friend has a painter turtle in a very nice tank. She used to swim all of the time. Now she just hangs out on her rock. Do they hibernate in some way when the weather gets colder?
Hi Lisa,
Your friend has a painted turtle (Chrysemys picta). They do hibernate, but not inside--it would need to be quite cold for that to happen. Is the turtle showing any other symptoms? Not eating, lethargic, bubbles from the nose, "yawning" or gaping, stretching the neck out, etc.? Has she seen the turtle swim at all? Erratic swimming can indicate an upper respiratory infection, and if the turtle isn't swimming and the water/basking temperatures haven't changed, illness is the likely cause. Have her check her water temperature (should be about 78 degrees) and basking temperature (10-15 degrees higher than the water temp). If the temps check out, she should take her turtle to a good herp vet for an exam and treatment.
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Answers by Expert:
Jeannie
Expertise
Questions regarding husbandry of Russian tortoises and other Mediterranean species, sulcata, and redfoot tortoises; general tortoise care; box turtle care. If I can't answer a specific question, I can provide sources for further research. Please note: I am not well experienced with aquatic species. I've worked with them in rescue, but I don't keep or breed them. If you ask a question about red-eared sliders or other aquatic species, I may not be able to provide you with the specific information that you need, although I can give researched answers and direct you to websites that may help further. I also have contacts in rescue that I can use if necessary. Disclaimer: My advice is not a substitute for vet care. If I think your tortoise/turtle has a specific medical condition or injury that warrants a vet visit, I'll tell you so, and if possible I'll help you locate a vet. If I do advise consulting a vet, please do it for the health and safety of your pet.
Experience
I have kept and bred Russian tortoises for over ten years and have other Mediterranean species plus redfoots. Have kept box turtles in the past. I've worked with other tortoise species at a local rescue, mostly sulcata but some leopards, California desert tortoises, yellowfoots, and box turtles. I have also worked with aquatics in rescue, but don't keep them in my collection.
Education/Credentials
My knowledge is based on hands-on experience keeping, breeding, and working with tortoises and turtles.
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