Turtle eggs - what should I do?

18 years ago

Yesterday a turtle came into our yard and dug a hole right in the middle where I have a small perennial garden. I assume she was laying eggs since the same thing happened last year and the other animals (probably a raccoon) destroyed the eggs right away. Is there anything I can do to help the mother turtle out - or should I let nature take it course and let the other animals possible destroy the eggs again? How long does it take to hatch and will the mother come back for them? I think it is a box turtle but I am not positive.

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Comments (8)

courtgaverth
18 years ago
I think it should take about 60 to 80 days for them to hatch. At least thats what it takes for snakes. Once laid, they are on thier own. The mother will not return and the babies will be totally independant.
As for the predators, there is nothing you can do unless you want to incubate them your self which I wouldnt sugest if you are not experienced in that area or you can camp out there for two months with a shot gun and gaurd them. I sugest just letting nature take its course and dont feel bad if the nest gets raided again.
LAS23
Original Author
18 years ago
Thanks for the feedback. I will spray the area around the garden with Bobbex to deter the animals. It would deter me. I think I will not try the shot gun though. I am trying to save some lives, not end them! I appreciate the information.
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herpfriend
18 years ago
You could anchor some chicken wire over the area where the eggs were laid. Two to three feet square should be enough to keep the predators out. If this size gets in the way of your perennials, you could use chicken wire to make a small fence with a top and bury it at least a foot deep to deter the predators. When you see the hatchlings emerging from the ground, remove the fence, if they haven't already gone through it. You could substiture hardware cloth or even welded wire if you don't think chicken wire is strong enough.
LAS23
Original Author
18 years ago
Thanks Herpfriend! That is a great suggestion. So far the eggs are untouched and safe. I will give your idea a try.
the_alpha_wolf_rules
18 years ago
That's what they do to save sea turtle eggs from predators... and humans.
LAS23
Original Author
18 years ago
I have seen the cages on the beach in Florida many times. I always wondered what that was about until someone filled me in. What a great way for us to help nature out a bit. So far the eggs in our yard are still safe.
clparks
18 years ago
Do you know what kind of a turtle or was it actually a tortise? The chicken wire is the best protection but make it turn down into the ground as much as possible 6" min if possible. leave the top bowed a little so as there is room for the hatchlings.

I'm looking for a female Eastern Box for my big male. Either trade or on loan or a swap for offspring or other offers. We have plenty of room 30'x20' of herpifolia!
email direct if desired clparks@patmedia.net or 908-295-1441 or send me your number -my telco is free!
Thanks...
Arbee
18 years ago
Eastern box turtles are in a great decline. In many states it is illegal to take them from the wild. Obtain the turtles from breeders or from turtle rescue facilities.

Taking the precautions mentioned by herpfriend will go a long way to ensure that they hatch. Eggs laid in early June should hatch in September. Box turtles lay between 2-7 eggs.

Turtle eggs - what should I do?

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courtgaverth

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Turtle eggs - what should I do?

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courtgaverth

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