Other Turtle Discussion :: turtle survival?

[Warren]

hey everyone. just wondering if turtles can live in cold water without a heat lamp. i see them in the park and they do fine but im making sure. thanks

[cam722]

Most aquatic turtles will hibernate in cold water. They also won't eat if the water temperature is too low. The best temperature for a captive turtle is 78 for hatchlings (under a year) and 72-75 for older turtles.

[Warren]

thanks, thats good to know.

[sarah]

My vet told me that captured turtles who hibernate have a very low chance of survival.
I don't know how true that it but I know I make sure my turtles tank is at the right temperature...It makes for a happier turtle too :p

[cam722]

Hibernating captive turtles is a tricky business... that's why most don't survive. That's why it's not recommended unless you know what you're doing.

[industrial_girl_2000]

Definitely keep a captured turtle in a tank WITH a submersible heater. In captivity, they can get pneumonia if the water is too cold. I lost 2 turtles to pneumonia and it isn't pretty to watch them gasping for air (plus it takes them a long time to die and they suffer!). Don't take a chance. Heaters are cheap.