What's the main cause of captive turtle deaths?
Written by
John Williams
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Almost all turtles succumb to preventable causes, which are largely due to improper setup and care. Turtles, which usually rely on warmth and UVB (ultra-violet basking area), are denied the latter, which often results in metabolic bone disease, sometimes accompanied by respiratory infections. Water quality is generally poor too, as waste and faeces are not dealt with acceptably. Nutrition is another failing. Understand the preventable cause, and you will have a companion for years to come.
Basking Area Failures
- Missing UVB exposure causes metabolic bone disease
- Improper temperatures lead to respiratory infections
- Inaccessible platforms prevent shell drying
- Unstable surfaces cause drowning accidents
Water Quality Issues
- Ammonia buildup burns respiratory tissues
- Inadequate filtration allows bacterial blooms
- Chemical imbalances damage organ function
- Poor oxygenation causes suffocation
Nutritional Deficiencies
- Calcium deficiency softens shells and bones
- Vitamin A shortage causes eye infections
- Protein imbalances lead to organ failure
- Overfeeding creates fatty liver disease
Prevent deaths through habitat management. Install a UVB lamp, positioned no more than 3 feet from the basking location, and maintain a consistent water temperature with reliable heaters. Water should be tested weekly for ammonia and nitrites. These items cover more than 85% of the preventable reasons turtles die in captivity.
Regular veterinary care identifies early warning signs. Yearly checkups identify soft shells before fractures arise. A blood test can identify nutritional shortfalls. A fecal exam can test for parasites. Proper healthcare and a proper habitat mitigate almost all premature deaths.
Read the full article: 10 Best Turtle Basking Platforms
