Most of us have owned a pet turtle at some point in our lives. Turtles come in all shapes and sizes. They are adaptable and resilient; therefore, they often lead long lives. These semi-aquatic creatures can survive on both land and in water.
But how long can a turtle stay out of water?
Turtles can survive out of water anytime between six to twelve hours without getting dehydrated. During hibernation, the time duration increases and lasts 3-6 months. But this survival is dependent on other external factors as well. These may include the temperature conditions and the turtle’s overall age and health.
Let us look deeper into factors impacting the duration turtles can stay out of water.
Factors Impacting How Long A Turtle Can Stay Out Of Water
Keep this list in mind when attempting to understand when it’s safe for a turtle to be far away from a water source.
The Age Of The Turtle
Younger turtles may look like they are fully developed, but their body cannot store water the same way an adult turtle can. The maximum time a younger turtle can spend away from water is six-eight hours. In contrast, adult turtles can store much more water in their body and can go as far as twelve hours out of water.
So ensure you keep an eye on the little one, especially during the heat.
The Temperature Of Their Surroundings
The weather conditions are fundamental in determining the time away from water. If it’s too hot, that means that the turtle will use up more stored water. They will lose out on the stored water more quickly since greater heat also means greater evaporation.
If it gets too hot, it is vital to replenish your turtle’s water supply.
The Humidity In Their Surroundings
There is a reason why turtles survive better in humid climates. Humid countries have a more significant turtle population than those that lack humidity. That is because high humidity, by nature, means a greater amount of water vapor present in the environment.
Exposure to that little water in the air can prolong a turtle’s stay out of water.
Whether They Are Hibernating Or Not
While it is true that most turtles prefer to hibernate underwater, that is not always the case, nor is it a necessity. When hibernating, the bodily functions of the turtle slow down.
Hibernation means that they use up less water than usual, and as a result, the water that they have stored in their bodies naturally lasts longer. A hibernating turtle can go months without being underwater.
Key Takeaways
In short, being semi-aquatic gives turtles the unique ability to stray far away from water but eventually, they need to return. How long they can stay away from water depends on their age and how hot and dry the environment is. Hotter and drier climates are less suitable for turtles.
As long as your turtle is exposed to water every few hours, rest assured that they are safe.
