Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Sorry for all the questions below. I've tried to research turtle breeding online, but I haven't found answers to everything, yet.

I have five Eastern box turtle eggs that were laid on the 11th. How can I tell if they are fertile? They're not exactly white, but they're not getting any browner. At what point can they be candled for blood vessels? Also, I've been told that some females will lay several clutches in a single season. How far apart are these multiple clutches? The male still wants to mate. Can mating upset any developing eggs inside? What if a female gets turned over while she's gravid?

Thanks for the help.

"How can I tell if they are fertile? They're not exactly white, but they're not getting any browner."

They should be white or slightly off-white unless they are stained by the soil in which they were laid. If they are turning a light caramel color, they are probably infertile.

"At what point can they be candled for blood vessels?"

Usually about 2-3 weeks after laying.

"Also, I've been told that some females will lay several clutches in a single season. How far apart are these multiple clutches?"

Intervals between clutches can be very variable, in my experience.

"The male still wants to mate. Can mating upset any developing eggs inside?"

I'm not sure about mating while gravid...my females don't let that happen. If your male is constantly trying, you might want to separate him from the female for a while, to give her a rest.

"What if a female gets turned over while she's gravid?"

Good question...I don't know if there are any negative physical effects. The turtle would probably want to turn herself back over promptly, just as she would if she weren't gravid. If you find her upside down, turn her back over.

Hope that helps.