I think my sisters box turtle died.?

Question

I'm not really sure though because my sister said that box turtles can go into a coma if they're ill and they can live up to 120 years. I just can't believe this. We've had him since the day i was born (17 years) and it's like losing a family member. Did it die or is it in a coma? It's not moving at all and my mom said there were bubbles coming from the water.

Answer 1

The only answer I can think of giving is watching closely for bubbles and taking it to a local veterinarian. I'm sorry about the turtle, though. I hope he's not dead.

This info on hibernation may say if it's actually hibernating:
Hibernation
Any box turtle that has recently been ill should not be allowed to hibernate. Hibernation results in a general decrease in overall resistance of the turtle. Consequently, latent or chronic illness in a hibernating turtle can then create more serious and even life-threatening disease. Hibernation is not necessary for the health and well-being of box turtles. Unlike regular sleep, hibernation involves a more prolonged period of inactivity, accompanied by a substantial decrease in metabolic activity, both of which enable the animal to survive periods during which environmental conditions are relatively harsh.

Newly acquired box turtles should not be allowed to hibernate until their health status has been accurately determined. Hatchling box turtles should not be allowed to hibernate until after their third year of life. Box turtles can be kept from hibernating by maintaining their winter environmental temperature 5-10 degrees higher than their summer temperature. Under these conditions, box turtles usually appear sluggish. If they refuse to eat, periodic forced-feedings are recommended.

Coma info:
Typical Signs of Illness
A sick box turtle may not eat and may lose weight. Swollen and/or runny eyes, nasal discharge, swollen ears, lumps or swellings, wounds to the shell, increased water consumption, diarrhea, extreme lethargy, weakness and coma are other signs of illness. Subtle changes in behavior and the turtle's routine often signal the onset of illness. It is at this stage in the course of an illness that a box turtle should be presented to a veterinarian. A thorough physical exam and a laboratory work-up (blood and/or bacteriology tests) can be performed to diagnose and properly treat the problem.

Answer 2

From the water? Box turtles are not aquatic- they live on land.

Put it on its back and see if it tries to right itself, or gently pull on a leg and see if it resists and tries to pull back in.

Going into a coma if they are ill is not quite true. Like many animals, they hide, and either get better or die, depending on many factors.

They CAN live 100+ years, but most pet Box Turtles will die within 3 years. With good care, they can live to 50-70 years pretty easily- but 15-20 is a good average for a decently cared-for turtle.

You can learn more about box turtles as pets at http://www.boxturtlesite.info

Answer 3

i've got been applying dried up corn cob, and that i've got been receiving compliments on how properly my turtles have been taken care of. i've got been applying in view that I have been given them, 2 years in the past, so i think of i understand what i'm speaking approximately.

Answer 4

If it's dead, it will smell bad in a few days.