Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have rehabilitated box turtle for three years but most were returned to the wild. As the non-returnable ones went to the back pen. We never had (or found) eggs. This year the five lady's have blessed us with 29 and the first one just started to hatch, some liquid ran out but I can see a foot and side of the head in the shell. I was just going to let the baby come out its self but is the goo normal or should it of been absorbed? The more I know the better off they will be. Thank you for any information

The 'goo' (clear) is normal. The yolk (yellow) is the part that will be absorbed. My experience has led me to conclude that leaving the baby in the egg and letting them do what they need to do is best.

Good answer. I'd have said exactly that. The time it takes them to leave the shell completely allows for the yolk to be absorbed.

Thank you for your responce so quickly. StephF I owe this all to you, you helped me on my first rescue when she got sick. We are now doing turtle rescues for all types. The eggs are new to me and I just wanted to make sure everything was OK. Best wishes Peeperskeeper

You're making me blush.