Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Would it be better for me to let my turtle's eggs hatch where they were origionaly layed, or should I incubate them myself. I have heard that if they hatch under ground they may not appear till the following spring. Since I live in Chicago, I'm afraid they'll freeze to death because of our really harsh winters.

When were the eggs laid? Most turtles laying eggs outdoors in your part of the country would have done so back between late spring and early fall and the babies would have hatched by now. If it was later than that, it would just be a guess, because it would depend on how bad the winter is. If you want to be sure, dig them up. It they haven't hatched by now, the cold weather will kill them in the eggs. If they have hatched, the babies will have a better chance in your house than they will under the frozen ground.

The female hasn't laid them yet. But I want to be prepared come the spring.

>>The female hasn't laid them yet. But I want to be prepared come the spring.

If the turtle lays the eggs in early summer they should hatch before fall. The only time I would dig them up is if she lays them in the months of August or September. If you do that be sure to read up on artifical incubation, perhaps even buying a Hovabator incubator.