Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just found out that vermiculite is not a good medium to incubate eggs in. So I need some help. I have never used perlite to incubate my Crested eggs so my question is, What do I need to do to get the perfect mix to incubate the eggs in?
Thanks

Just spray and mix with water until it just starts to clump. It's suggested to us a 1:1 ratio by weight. Hope this helps.
I've heard debates about vermiculite, i've used both for years.
-Bill
Azteclizard.com

Just spray and mix with water until it just starts to clump. It's suggested to us a 1:1 ratio by weight. Hope this helps.
I've heard debates about vermiculite, i've used both for years.
-Bill
Azteclizard.com

I have also used both mediums before with no problems. Vermiculite can absorb too much water and become soaking wet, so you have to be careful in those regards. I have also heard that some brands supposedly contain asbestos. Perlite is a slightly better choice IMO. As bill said just mix 1:1 with water by weight or till it clumps together. It can be deceiving however because a few days after mixing the clumps loosen up and it appears dry. So go against your instinct to add water, if you mixed it correctly it can usually last the duration of the incubation period. The best medium to use IMO is ceramic granules (second pic), a type of aquatic soil for ponds. I have been using it exclusively for the past few years and never lost a fertile egg. It is simple to use; add water till it darkens in color and clumps together. If the clumps loosen and the soil lightens you need to add more water (teaspoon or two around the edges). The medium kind of acts just like those terra cotta worms people put in plant pots to indicate when they need watering. Great stuff and I highly recommend it if you can find it. Check your local garden centers.
-Mike

p.s. I didnt have a pic of hatchling on vermiculite uploaded..sorry.
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