Reptile & Amphibian Forums

my western hognose laid 9 eggs about a week ago, I have them at about 80 degrees and in a tupperware container with air holes and vermaculite, the problem is the eggs are all slowly shrivelling up, some look like raisins, I have 5 good ones left and would like to know a better way to incubate them or maybe a recipe for mixing wermaculite thanks to anyone who replies
Wayne

First, I'm no expert, and I'm only answering because you said you needed help ASAP and no one else responded yet.

Second, if someone contradicts me on a later post, you should probably listen to them.

Now, as for the eggs, my understanding is that when they start to shrivel they do so because they are becoming dehydrated, and they need a higher water to vermiculite ratio. It's supposed to be kind of mushy in there. So, add water, and make sure you check them every day to keep that level correct.

I hope that helps.

I have never dealt with hognoses, nor have i ever used vermiculite, so I don't know the ratio of water:vermiculite that you should use, or the required temps or humidity. But as the last reply already suggests, if they are turning into raisins, i would suggest warming a mass of water to 80F on the stove, and then putting it in the incubator. That way, it wont suck all the heat from the air and the effect will be more immediate. Make sure you don't go any hotter than the temp of your incubator, or the temps will rise too much.

Adding water directly on to the eggs is not an effective way for them to absorb it... they may just become soggy and mouldy. Adding the water to the air lowers the risk of mould. But remember, too much humidity is going to lead to more problems.

Note - just as the last reply - i am only advising because of an immediate need of help, and any contradictions may be of better status to follow. I'm just letting you know what i would do.

ALso, you might want to jump on the web and look for breeders of hognoses and contact one directly. Most breeders are happy to offer free advise, whether or not you've purchased them before.

Good luck! and don't give up on the ones that are looking bad... they may still be alright. Here's hoping.

I agree, increasing the humidity is the answer, Moisture is deadly so avoid direct contact between water droplets and the eggs.