Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a great trio (1.2.0)of cherryheads. The male has been having a good time with both females for the last two months or so. This is the first time that he has been doing it on a regular basis and with such "gusto" ( I got to hear the clucking noises and the "roar" from the male) I can only assume that he is sucessfully breeding with these females. One of the females has been digging holes. Is it too soon to look out for eggs? How soon (assuming that it is in perfect conditions) after consumation do the females lay eggs? I have read that it still may take over a year to see results. Should I start preparing by getting an incubator? Any suggestions on what type of incubator? I just want to make sure I don't get caught without options, so I better get going! Thanks.

PS
They are living outside in the South Florida weather, fed daily, greens and fruits alternating, calcium powder every three days. Male is about 8 1/2", females are 8 1/2" and 9". Not sure if the bigger female ha bred before. The smaller has never been bred as far as I know. I got her when she was a bit under 7"

Enjoy

Allegra,
Get an incubator STAT! They don't dig unless they have a reason.
Nice photos...dang! How did you find that kewl looking female?

Which one? The outrageous orange one? She was located by a good friend of mine who was kind enough to tell me about her and will get some of the babies when she breeds! Mel, did tell me that she has laid an infertile clutch before (2 years ago), does this increase my chances of a fertile one?

I counted at least four before covering them back up. Where do I start? Where do I get an incubator? Help! I am in a happy panic!

nm

There are a few incubator manufacturers around. Here are some links

http://www.lyonelectric.com/rrl1.htm

http://www.aveyinc.com/reptile_pages.htm

Or if those are too pricey. A home made option is easily made.

Here are the basics which you can vary the items to best suit your own application.

Pick up a small or large well made fridge, freezer out of your local paper. It does not have to be functional, as the core is the only thing of use to you.

You can use flexwatt, or heat cable. ( http://www.beanfarm.com or http://www.bigappleherp.com )Run along the sides and back vertically, as well as across the top and bottom.

Hook the heat source to a herpstat 2, a ranco ora helix would work as well.

Set up a source for humidity. I have used a tub of water just fine. Then hook up one or two computer fans for air circulation.

There is more that can be added or altered for your needs. Overall it should be less than $200.00 and hold up to a few large clutches of eggs.

Cheers,
J

I managed to borrow an incubator from Carl, but I think I need to be better prepared for the next clutch! Thanks for the info. Cute Bird!