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Hello we have had our res about 18 months. She is 15 years old and to the best of my knowledge her scute shedding has always been healthy and normal - small transparent pieces flaking off from time to time. But recently in the last two weeks or so, it seems that her shedding has increased, and whole scutes are coming off leaving a dark new shell. Other scutes feel loose as well.

Her behaviour is much the same, she eats normally and basks under uvb light most of the day.

Is this something to be concerned about?

Any advice you might have is appreciated!
Thanks.

The scutes that are coming off are infected with fungus. The darker, smoother brown scutes are normal. This is a very good sign.

Two things to really watch out for: Fungus growth on the newly exposed scutes and any possible infection existing between the scutes. Fungus is really difficult to get rid of. If there are small white areas on the new scutes, I would consider some treatment before it spreads again. Other possible infections might exist where it is moist and might have debris to feed on. Make sure the shell is hard and firm. Any soft or liquidy areas will need attention. The seams between the scutes are more vulnerable to this.

This is exactly what's going on with my turtle now, beautiful dark shell underneath. I'm about to take her into the vet to get meds to treat the minor shell rot on the under scrutes (white pits).

Aww looks like she has a pretty dark shell comin out.

Thanks for the advice! We've got some solution and cream from the vets and are applying it now. I'm wondering if all the scutes will eventually fall off?! Poor thing.

mart wrote:Thanks for the advice! We've got some solution and cream from the vets and are applying it now. I'm wondering if all the scutes will eventually fall off?! Poor thing.

They totally will- it just takes time. Hope they come off sooner than later.