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I have a 3 yr old mississippi map turtle. Today I noticed a large piece of his shell floating in his tank. When I saw his shell, I noticed that a large portion of it has come off. There is hard material underneath what has peeled away, but it is a darker color and I'm worried that he may have shell rot. Is it normal for a turtle's shell to come off in this manner? Should I take him for another visit to the vet?
Any help you can offer would be appreciated. I'm worried about him.
Is the piece thin like a fingernail? Water turtles shed the outer layer of the scutes as they grow. It should be thin and you should be able to see through it depending on the color.
yes it is think like a fingernail, and I can see through it. But should it concern me that the shell underneath is dark and has some white patches on it when he sits up on his basking spot? Thank You for your help.
No, it sounds like the turtle is fine. Wait a week, and take a soft tooth brush to clean the spot. As you turtle basks, the spot will lighten to match the rest of the turtle.
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