Painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) are small freshwater turtles, found from south Canada to north Mexico, and known for their colourful shell markings. They can hibernate in the ground during winter, emerging in spring to feed and reproduce.
In this compelling BBC footage narrated by David Attenborough, filmed as the chill of winter sets in, turtle hatchlings stay put in their hole, rather than embark on a fruitless search for food above ground.
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Over time, the temperature falls to -10°C. Ice crystals grow around their bodies, and even inside them. This would kill a mammal or bird. However, the tissues inside the tiny turtles’ bodies are protected by a kind of antifreeze.
It means the hatchlings can remain in this deep-freeze for up to six months. When spring comes, the ice melts around and within them, and they slowly begin to come back to life.
After a while, they become fully functional and are ready to emerge into the outside world.
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This clip is taken from the BBC's Life in Cold Blood, which reveals the surprising truth about the cold-blooded lives of reptiles and amphibians.
Main image: A baby painted turtle. Credit: BBC
