How Long Can Turtles Go Without Food?

Commonly, the word "turtle" covers both turtles (which generally live in the water) and tortoises (which generally live on land). About 300 species survive today, with about a dozen commonly kept as pets. All of the species are reptiles and have a shell that grows along with their bodies. Many species hibernate.

  1. Size

    • Generally, the smaller the turtle, the more often it will need to eat. On average, turtles of any species eat every other day, unless they are hibernating.

    Considerations

    • Turtle hatchlings will not eat up to 2 weeks after hatching, because they will still be feeding off inner yolk sacs. The colder the hatchling is, the less it will move, and the less hungry it will be.

    Hibernation

    • Turtles often hibernate through the winter in order to survive. They can seem to be dead for up to 5 months. A turtle kept in constant warm heat will not hibernate.

    Diet

    • Turtles that eat a protein-based diet can go for a couple of days between meals. But according to the Honolulu Zoo, vegetarian species like the Galapagos tortoise need to eat every day.

    Expert Advice

    • New pet turtles will often not eat for nearly a week while they settle into their new home, because they are under stress. Offer different kinds of insects to tempt a younger turtle; offer bananas and strawberries to older turtles.