Damp peat moss is fine. Dripping wet is not acceptable; however there are many degrees of damp as this is subjective. Floridas will nest in a varying degree of moist substrate.



Other factors such as feeling secure are very important in getting a successful hatch. Is the peat moss deep enough; I like to offer at least 6 to 8 inches of substrate and let the boxies dig to their preferred depth. I use a medium sized rubbermaid bread loaf or slightly larger container filled with milled peat moss and a silk plant hanging over it as my birthing chamber. All my floridas seem to love depositing their eggs there.





Is the area quiet? Loud noises or barking dogs can spook them. Is the enclosure large enough? Small areas can make a tense female even more nervous. Is she with other intimidating boxies. Is she dehydrated? Boxies need lots of water prior to nesting.





Give her all she wants and privacy.... and good luck.



Ric

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• Update on florida box turtle nesting - steffke, Sat Aug 26 23:12:07 2006
• RE: Update on florida box turtle nesting - streamwalker, Sun Aug 27 00:11:40 2006
• RE: Update on florida box turtle nesting - steffke, Sun Aug 27 10:20:52 2006
• RE: Update on florida box turtle nesting - steffke, Tue Aug 29 20:27:58 2006