Turtles Don’t Hibernate. Or Do They?

The correct term for the period when reptiles hide out during cold weather is brumation.

But did you know that some Turtles not only hibernate during the cold season, but some can also hibernate during hot weather!

During brumation, the Turtle’s metabolism slows right down, it won’t eat and by absorbing oxygen from the water through special glands near its tail, can stay hidden underwater for up to 3 months.  Even during brumation, a Turtle is able to wake up and move away from danger if necessary.

During the hot dry season in some northern and southern parts of Australia, some Turtles can also go into hibernation until the beginning of cooler weather.  Hibernation during hot weather is called aestivation. 

And did you know, that our local Long-neck Turtle aka the Oblong Turtle (Chelodina oblonga) does not brumate or aestivate!

Resources for this articles

Keeping Long-Necked Turtles by Darren Green

http://www.chelodina.com/4.htm