I am having a heck of a time hatching eggs in my star torts, and figured that I could give some specs for what I am doing and see what my issue may be.

I have a 1.2 group of stars that are approximately 7 or 8 years old. The male is about 600 grams, and females around 1000 and 1500 grams. Last year I saw the male trying to mount the smaller female. A few months later, she dug a hole and laid 3 eggs. I have had experience with other reptiles before, and egg incubation, so I placed the eggs in moistened vermiculite at a ration that has worked in the past for other species and set them at 87 degrees. The eggs never appeared fertile. I continue to get eggs about every 2 to 3 months throughout the year. I am a veterinarian so I radiograph her every 3 months or so whenever she has laid during that period. The eggs never appear to develop a vascular component that I can see. The past 2 clutches, I have observed her getting agitated and digging holes without laying eggs. After a few weeks of this activity, I have induced her with oxytocin. I never see the male trying with the bigger female. I think she is simply too big.

What do you think I am doing wrong? Do you think the male perhaps isn't actually getting in? Should i try incubating differently? Is it a matter just age and size and I shouldnt worry just yet? thanks!

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