Why is my turtle losing pieces of his shell?

Question

I have a 4 1/2yr old yellow bellied slider turtle. I keep his tank very clean and filtered and I also use skin and shell treatment on him as directed. However, this week I noticed that layers of his shell are in the tank, not many but at least 3 pieces. I can see where the layers have come off but I don't know why. He is eating well and is active. I can't call my vet until Monday and I am curious what this could be?

Answer 1

This shouldn't be a problem as long as the pieces are small (the size of one scute or "section") and thin. If big pieces are coming off, or you can see bone, that could be serious!

This just sounds like normal shedding - they will also shed their skin periodically.

If you'd like to read some on shedding and shell problems just to be sure, see the medical section on this website: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/

Answer 2

Turtles are like other reptiles, as they grow they lose their skin, in this case they lose their shell. Just like snakes lose their skin, turtle lose their shell, there should be new shiny shell underneath

Answer 3

Is losing pieces of his bottom shell good?

Answer 4

hmm, maybe he bumped into something and acciented broke some of his shell before. if you worrying about it you can try to take his to the petsmart store or at the pet shop that does open on the weekends and have them check see if nothing wrong with him .

Answer 5

He's growing up!

Answer 6

I bet he is molting! Don't worry about him. Turtles do different things. Make sure to wash your hands before you hold him and after!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! TURTLES ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!