Other Turtle Discussion :: possible hibernation vs wanting to nest

[corman1]

Hi we have 2 sliders approx 4 mo apart. Both raised as babies. But not together. They are now. The 2nd turtle has for the past 2 months swimming half tipped over and also does not eat. The other turle (we also believe is female) pretty much leaves it alone. That one also spends alot of time under the heat lamp. Hours at a time. What I am wondering is if this one is trying to hibernate while the other isn't. The older one is about 2 yrs old and a happy turtle. They are living in a 50 gallon tank. Thanks Cory

[steve]

There seems to be a serious condition with the "2nd turtle". If he/she is swimming lop-sided, it is usually a sign of a serious respiratory infection, in which you should immediately re-examine how you have your setups configured and contact a qualified vet. Excessive basking is not hibernation, and can be an indication of illness (more the reason to suspect a respiratory infection.)

http://www.redearslider.com/index_basic ... .html#vets

here is a brief guide for new owners:
http://www.redearslider.com/res-guide.pdf

here is more information about RI:
http://www.redearslider.com/index_health_1.html

If there is an illness or a significant difference in size, then they should be kept in different enclosures.

[Master_spork]

I had a turtle who did the same thing. We took him to the vet and it turned out to be pneumonia. We had to keep him seperately from our other turtle and give him anitbiotics for about two weeks. Now he's just fine. I would deffinately take it to a vet.