01/06/2020
Aggression:
1. a forceful action or procedure (such as an unprovoked attack) especially when intended to dominate or master
2: the practice of making attacks or encroachments
3: hostile, injurious, or destructive behavior or outlook especially when caused by frustration
Each turtle, regardless of species, has its own personality. There are some species of turtle that are more aggressive than others. Because you never truly know how your turtle will react in any situation, it is important to let them live alone, unless you have a gigantic pond, and even then they will fight. Turtles are naturally solitary creatures who prefer to be alone, rather than with “friends.”
Just like with most, if not all animals, turtles are territorial. They need a bubble, a big bubble! If their territory is invaded by anything, including another turtle, they can turn aggressive in seconds. Things can get ugly and may be fatal.
Signs of aggression/bullying/dominance and territorial behavior include:
Following the turtle
Not letting him/her eat
Sitting on him/her
Swimming on top of him/her
Fighting over food
Signs your turtle is being bullied:
Skittish
Not eating as much, if at all
Sitting in 1 place or hiding more often
Aggression can happen with any s*x, any size, any species. Some species are known for being more aggressive, some species are known for being more submissive.
DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE TURTLE’S ABILITY TO TURN AGGRESSIVE REGARDLESS OF HOW “SWEET” YOU MAY THINK HE/SHE IS!!!