Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone,

So...my RES has 6 eggs developing in her abdomen; has for at least 2 weeks, confirmed with X-Ray. The eggs showed up well on the film. Any idea how long on average a RES will retain her eggs before laying them? I have a nesting area all set for her, and she's been chilling out on it every now and then, but no productivity yet. I'd like to have sort of idea on when to expect her to lay so that I can have the incubator all set and ready to go.

Thanks!

--Matt

They can retain eggs for long periods of time. Generally, when the eggs are developed and ready to be laid you can see signs like digging test nests with the back feed and also a decrease in appetite if not completely refusing food. If she refuses food for a long a period of time but does not lay you may need a vet to induce her to lay.