Found a box turtle, dead? hibernating?

[a6715s]

We found a turtle in our storage area. I think it's an ornate box turtle. How can I tell if it's dead or hibernating? Storage area temps are low 50's, currently it's in a room in the low 60's. It has not moved all day. Its head, tail, and rear feet are all tucked in. Front legs are extended. It doesn't move at all if we touch its feet. Outside temps have been below 10, but are in the low 20's now.

I called a wildlife rehab group, but they are out of our area and have been less than helpful (not familiar with turtle care and can't get in touch with their turtle expert).

Is it dead? What should I do with it? It cannot stay in the storage area.

 

[krichardson]

Doesn't sound good that it's legs are extended.Hope someone can come on soon and offer advice,and you can save it.

 

[a6715s]

I think I'll call our game commission in the morning. Hopefully they'll come get it. The rehab people wanted me to try to wake it up, but I think that's a bad idea. Seems like it would be more likely to survive if it continues hibernating.

 

[Filet o fish]

It's not dead or his head and front legs would be hanging out if its shell. Its muscles are holding it closed. It should probably remain in hibernation since your outside temps are low. You can line a box with straw put him in and cover with more straw. Keep him in your garage or basement but don't keep him where he could freeze. Hopefully he will come around in spring.

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[krichardson]

But he said the front legs are not pulled in.

 

[a6715s]

Its front legs are hanging out. The head is visible but pulled in slightly. The shell is definitely not closed.

I'm not sure it's legal to keep them here and I don't really have a good place to keep it in the right temp range through the winter. I'd rather get it to someone who knows what they're doing.

It's so pretty!

 

[lix.ma14]

got any pictures?

 

[a6715s]

Nope, didn't think of it until I was on my way home (it's at work). I'll get a picture in the morning if it's still there.

 

[Siddons11]

Hope hes okay. :/

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[a6715s]

Talked to game commission today. I'm allowed to keep it, but we're all pretty sure it's dead. Tail and one rear leg was sticking out a little this morning.