How Do Hatchling Turtles Get Through the Winter? A Detailed Guide to Safe Overwintering Methods

Turtles have a very sturdy shell on their bodies; when attacked, a turtle can retract its head, tail and limbs into the shell. It is a poikilothermic (cold-blooded) animal, and its life is greatly affected by the ambient temperature. So, how do hatchling turtles get through the winter?

1. How do hatchling turtles get through the winter?

1. Environment: A stainless steel hatchling box can be used, and some moss and other plants can be placed in the box to give the hatchlings a sense of security and reduce anxiety and stress;

2. Disinfection: To prevent the turtle from getting sick during hibernation, it can be disinfected once; a potassium permanganate solution can be used, mixed at a ratio of 1 kg of water, and after mixing, put the turtle into the solution for 15 minutes;

3. Temperature: The suitable temperature for hibernation is 1-10°C. Above 10°C it is easy to wake them up, which will affect their growth and reproduction the following year.

2. How to help turtles hibernate?

1. Reduce the amount and frequency of feeding

Turtles preparing to hibernate should have their feeding frequency and amount reduced. Entering October, feeding can basically be stopped, but in high-temperature areas feeding can be temporarily continued, such as in Hainan and other regions. If the turtle still has the desire to catch prey, it should not be fed at this time either. When the water temperature drops to around 20°C, begin clearing the turtle's intestines; the method is to change the water for the turtle and increase the frequency of water changes to stimulate the intestines and promote excretion. Basically change the water once every 3 to 4 days. At first there will be excrement, which gradually decreases until there is no excretion; at this point the intestinal clearing is basically complete.

2. Ensure the quality of the rearing water

During hibernation, if the water is found to be dirty or contains excrement, it means the intestinal clearing work has not been completed, and the water needs to be changed in time. When changing the water, be careful that the water temperature difference does not exceed 5°C. During your turtle's hibernation, if the water evaporates, replenish it in time; usually the water level for your turtle's hibernation should cover the turtle's back or be slightly deeper.

3. Pay attention to whether the intestinal clearing is thorough

During hibernation, turtles rely on consuming the fat stored in their bodies to survive, and during this period they basically do not move, so as to reduce energy consumption. If there is undigested food in the intestines and stomach, it cannot be digested after hibernation, and the food remaining in the body will turn into harmful substances, which in severe cases may endanger their lives. Therefore, intestinal clearing is a very important step.

When hatchling turtles are hibernating, do not disturb them, otherwise they will easily use up their energy after waking up.