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box turtle hatching question

turtletel Nov 21, 2003 05:51 PM

I was wondering if there was anything i could do to assist my egg in hatching. his egg tooth is sticking out and i was wondering if and what i could do to assist it.

Replies (2)

StephF Nov 22, 2003 08:05 AM

It really is best to leave it be: just maintain the humidity levels so that the little guy doesn't dehydrate. It can take a couple of days for them to fully emerge from the egg, during which time the yolk sac is supported and protected by the shell.
I know its VERY tempting to help them along, but there is a real potential to inadvertantly do more damage than good.
The egg tooth will shed later on: one of mine didn't lose his for close to a month after hatching.
Good luck!
Stephanie

spycspider Nov 23, 2003 12:50 AM

Hey,

I left mine in their shells for a whole week while keeping the humidity high and their incubator undisturbed. One day they shifted position, crawled out, and then went back into their shells. That day I moved them into their new terrarium. And they're doing quite fine now. Thanks to everyone who gave me advice a while back. =)

Johnny

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