The differences between a hibernating turtle and a dead one are mainly in the following aspects:
- Physical Condition: A hibernating turtle has a moist body with tight and elastic skin, eyes tightly closed, round and not shriveled, and the eyelids slightly bulge outward with a sense of transparency. A dead turtle has flat and white eyelids, relaxed muscles, limbs and head drooping on the shell, skin without elasticity, and sunken, shriveled eyes.
- Pulling Limbs: When a turtle is hibernating, there is noticeable resistance when its limbs are pulled, and there is a slight reaction when the limbs are touched, while a dead turtle shows no response at all.
- Submerging in Water: A hibernating turtle will start to breathe when placed in water, while a dead turtle will show no reaction when submerged.
- Odor: The internal organs of a dead turtle rot, producing a foul smell, while a hibernating turtle does not have this odor.
Original article by KPTer, if reproduced, please cite the source: https://www.kaipet.com/en/determine-turtle-hibernating-dead-4-techniques-distinguish
