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Hi Steve (and everyone else),

I hope you're all well and enjoying your time with your turtles!

You might recall that we have an older, female RES turtle, Turtleneck, living with us. She's almost 30 years old, and she's actually my housemate's turtle, officially, but I look after her much of the time. The past couple of months, she began sleeping (in the water) with her rear end elevated a few inches -- I've begun to wonder if turtles have some kind of ballast, and if so, that she's "lost" her ballast? (or something similar) ... Do you have any insights into this, Steve? Thank you very much!

hi! this is something to keep an eye on. if there are no other symptoms, then Turtleneck should be fine. when she normally sleeps, is it on the tank bottom? i do believe RES use water as a ballast, but i'm not sure if thats the issue here.

Hi Steve,
Thanks for responding and some insights into this query. She just started a couple of months ago sleeping like that, at the bottom of the tank. She was diagnosed a few years ago with MBD, and has since slowed down a lot (most noticeable when she's "dry docking", walking around on the floor). We've decreased her food considerably and usually only give her leafy green lettuce and a bit of chopped up zucchini these days (not every day).

Maybe it's just related to her age. Does she move around in the water when sleeping? She should be surfacing every once in awhile to breathe.

Yes, she's quite active in the water! And she does surface at times for (more) air. I think you're right it being an age-related thing. Thanks for your input, Steve, and have a great weekend!

Hi Steve, Just want to let you know that our beloved turtle-friend, Turtleneck, passed away yesterday afternoon, peacefully while sleeping on the floor in front of the refrigerator (one of her favourite spots). My housemate, ironically, just recently realized that she was, in fact, OVER 30 years old! She's at peace now, no more sickness or boredom! THANK YOU for all your assistance and providing us turtle lovers with this forum ... Gratefully, Roslyn.

Very sorry to hear about Turtleneck! 30 years is an impressive span and she was undoubtedly part of endless memories. She was well cared for and loved, I'm sure she will be very missed. Best to you Roslyn and your housemate.

Thanks so much, Steve. Your kind words are much appreciated! She had a long life, an interesting one, and now she's free from the burden of sickness (MBD) and old age, and is enjoying her time on "the other side of the veil". ... Gratefully, Roslyn.