Hibernation for cold-blooded animals is called "brumation." Many species of temperate-climate turtles and tortoises brumate, or hibernate, in the winter. Captive tortoises and turtles don't need to hibernate to survive, but annual hibernation periods can increase your odds of breeding success.

How do I know if my turtle is hibernating?

A turtle that is brumating still has control of their muscles. If you find your turtle unmoving with their legs sticking out of the shell, try picking them up. If their legs are limp and swinging lifelessly, they are probably dead. A brumating turtle should still be able to maintain control of their legs.

Do turtles Brumate in captivity?

From October onwards, your turtle may present a state of torpor, very similar to the hibernation phases some mammals go through. When kept in captivity, turtles should not brumate, as they should not be exposed to temperatures that might harm their health.