Are Tortoises Hibernating? Brumation In Tortoises Explained

If you’re a tortoise owner, you may have asked yourself if your pet tortoise hibernates, and you wouldn’t be alone. This article will explain the ins and outs of tortoise dormancy, and you’ll learn that while tortoises don’t hibernate in the truest sense of the word, they do go through a period of dormancy known as brumation, which is characterized by lower temperatures and less food.

This article will take you through the latest findings from herpetologists, ecologists, and veterinarians to explain the details of how brumation works for different species of tortoises. It will also explain the physiological changes that tortoises go through during brumation, the behavioral changes that signal the start of brumation, and the environmental changes that need to be in place for a tortoise to have a successful brumation period. This knowledge will help tortoise owners make sure that their pets are as comfortable as possible during the winter months.

How to Tell If Your Tortoise Is a Hibernating Species

Not all tortoise species have the same hibernation requirements. Some tortoises are naturally adapted to hibernate, while others don't need to hibernate at all. A tortoise's species and the climate of its natural habitat are the most important factors in determining whether or not it needs to hibernate.

Many of the most popular species of pet tortoises, including the Mediterranean, Russian, and Desert tortoises, hibernate during the winter months. Meanwhile, tropical and rainforest species like the Leopard and Indian Star tortoises don't hibernate because their natural habitats don't have the same seasonal temperature changes.

Although it may be tempting to choose a non-hibernating species because they may seem easier to care for, experts suggest that you choose a species that's native to the climate you live in since it can be difficult to create the exact conditions that a rainforest tortoise needs. Before you attempt to hibernate a pet tortoise, it's important to research the species' specific needs and natural behaviors to make sure you're providing the best care. Knowing what your tortoise's natural requirements are will help you make sure you're supporting a safe and healthy hibernation process, if it's necessary.

How to Prepare a Tortoise for Hibernation

Prepping a tortoise for hibernation requires a deep understanding of the animal's health and natural needs. Per Vet Help Direct, it's important to make sure the tortoise is healthy and has enough fat reserves to hibernate.

The process starts with a few weeks of slowly decreasing the tortoise's food intake and lowering the temperature in their enclosure to simulate the natural environment. ExoticDirect notes that it's important to pay attention to the tortoise's eating habits during this "hibernation induction period" to see if they're ready to hibernate.

It's also recommended to take the tortoise to the vet to make sure they're healthy before starting the hibernation process. As Westminster Vet explains, the tortoise should have a full bladder and empty bowels before hibernation to prevent any complications while they're hibernating. In addition, watching for changes in the tortoise's behavior and appetite can help you determine when they're ready to hibernate.

How to Manage Brumation

Properly managing brumation is essential to ensure the health and well-being of tortoises during hibernation. According to the Tortoise Trust, the length of time tortoises should be in brumation can vary based on the species and size of the tortoise, but it usually lasts between 8-10 weeks for smaller tortoises and up to 16 weeks for larger tortoises.

One of the most important factors to consider when managing brumation is the temperature of the hibernation environment. According to experts, the environment should be kept between 3-10°C (37-50°F) because anything outside of this range can be dangerous. Acceptable hibernation environments include insulated boxes, refrigerators that are set to the appropriate temperature, or other temperature-controlled spaces that have proper ventilation.

If tortoises are not managed properly during brumation, they can experience dehydration, excessive weight loss, and other health concerns. Vet Help Direct notes that it's important to monitor and weigh tortoises regularly during brumation to make sure they are healthy. This means that tortoise owners should keep a close eye on their tortoise's well-being and be ready to intervene if they notice any issues.

How to Wake a Tortoise from Hibernation

There are a few signs that a tortoise is ready to be woken up from hibernation. According to Petful, increased activity and urination are the most common signs that a tortoise is starting to come out of brumation.

The process of waking a tortoise from hibernation involves a slow and careful process of warming and rehydration. Northwich Vets suggest taking the tortoise out of its hibernation box on a sunny day, letting it bask for a few hours, and then putting it in a shallow bath of warm water, changing it as it cools. After this, the tortoise should be placed in a warm area where the temperature can be controlled and gradually increased over a few days.

It's important to keep a close eye on the tortoise's health and appetite as it wakes up from hibernation. According to the Tortoise Trust, tortoises coming out of hibernation are particularly vulnerable, with low white blood cell counts and high blood urea levels. Potential problems after hibernation include dehydration, lack of energy, and a weakened immune system. If the tortoise doesn't seem to be recovering well or shows any signs of illness, it's important to get it checked out by a vet.

Dangers and Health Risks of Brumation

Hibernating a tortoise that is sick, injured, or underweight can be extremely dangerous, as Turtle Brumation: The Benefits & Dangers Of The Hibernation Cycle explains. These tortoises lack the fat stores and general health needed to survive hibernation. In fact, hibernating a tortoise that is not in good health is “condemning it to certain death,” according to the Tortoise Trust.

Improper temperature management during brumation can also be life-threatening. As the Tortoise Trust points out, allowing a tortoise’s body temperature to drop to the freezing point “will invariably” lead to death or serious harm. Conversely, overheating can also be fatal. It is important to keep the temperature in the recommended range of 3-10°C (37-50°F) to ensure a safe hibernation.

Tortoises coming out of brumation have low white blood cell counts and high blood urea levels, according to the Tortoise Trust, which makes them prone to infection and dehydration. If you have any concerns about your tortoise’s health before, during, or after brumation, it is important to consult a veterinarian.

If a tortoise is too young, too old, or has health issues that make it unsafe for them to hibernate, the Tortoise Trust recommends keeping them awake and feeding them throughout the winter instead of trying to hibernate them. It is important to make sure they have the proper light and heat to support their normal bodily functions during this time.

Conclusion: Responsible Tortoise Care and Brumation

Brumation is an important part of many tortoise species' natural life cycle, but it requires careful management to ensure the health and safety of these shelled companions. Researching the specific needs of your tortoise, properly preparing it for hibernation, and closely monitoring the process are all essential. Potential risks, such as improper temperature control and attempting to hibernate an unfit animal, must also be avoided.

By consulting with experts and following best practices, tortoise owners can help their pets navigate the dormant months successfully. Responsible care and a commitment to the tortoise's well-being should be the top priorities when considering brumation.