2-4 weeks before hibernation, the swamp box turtle will gradually stop eating in order to clear the stomach. If the temperature continues to drop thereafter, the Swamp Box Turtle will go into a drowsy state.

When the temperature drops to rock bottom, the swamp turtle enters a deep sleep period that can last for months. As the weather warms up, the Swamp Box Turtle will wake up slowly, appearing sluggish at first, but quickly regain its vitality and appetite.