How to Know If a Turtle Is Dead

Turtles are masters at lazing around, being immobile and sort of just sitting like a lump. That’s why it’s not always easy to know if a turtle is dead. But you can figure out if your pet has passed on to turtle heaven with a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft stick
  • Food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gently poke at him. You can use a soft stick or your finger to see if you can get the turtle to move or at least react.

    • 2

      Tempt him with food. Pick out the tastiest treat you know he loves and offer it to him.

    • 3

      Turn him over and look at his underside. Turtles hate being flipped on their backs and will usually start to squirm when done so.

    • 4

      Look at his eyes. If they are glazed open and don’t blink when you blow on them, it may be time to dig the grave.

    • 5

      Note if he starts to smell. If you’ve ignored your turtle for some time and note a rotting flesh odor wafting from his cage, chances are he’s no longer with you.