It takes a long time for wild soft-shell turtle eggs to hatch in nature, about 70-90 days. Under artificial hatching conditions, we can also use some methods to help turtle eggs hatch.

Collect turtle eggs

When turtle eggs are found in the wild, collect them carefully. Do not touch turtle eggs directly with your hands, as human odor may affect the eggs. Eggs can be picked up gently using sterile gloves or clean tools.

Choose the right incubation container

Choose a breathable incubation container, such as a plastic box or foam box, and line the bottom of the container with clean sand or vermiculite. Sand or vermiculite can maintain humidity and prevent the soft-shell turtle eggs from evaporating too much.

Control temperature and humidity

The incubation temperature and humidity of soft-shell turtle eggs are crucial to the success of hatching. The ideal incubation temperature is between 26-30°C, and the humidity should be maintained at 80-90%. Thermostats and humidifiers can be used to adjust the temperature and humidity of the incubation environment.

Flip the turtle eggs

During the incubation process, soft-shell turtle eggs need to be turned regularly to prevent the yolk from adhering to the eggshell and affecting embryonic development. Generally speaking, just turn the turtle eggs every 1-2 days.

Observe turtle eggs

During the incubation process, changes in soft-shell turtle eggs should be observed regularly. If the eggshell is cracked or damaged, there may be a problem with embryonic development and needs to be dealt with in time. If the eggshell becomes darker, the embryo is developing.

Small turtle breaks shell

When the soft-shell turtle eggs hatch successfully, the baby turtles will hatch out. The baby turtles that have just broken out of their shells are relatively weak and need to be taken care of carefully. You can gently wipe the egg liquid from the baby turtle with a soft cloth and place it in a warm and humid environment.

Baby turtle feeding

After the turtle breaks out of its shell, it needs to be fed small fish, shrimp or special turtle food. The feeding frequency can be adjusted according to the growth of the turtle.

Precautions

During the incubation process, the incubation environment should be kept clean and sanitary, and sand or vermiculite should be replaced regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

Do not open the incubation container frequently to avoid drastic changes in temperature and humidity, which may affect the hatching of soft-shell turtle eggs.

If a soft-shell turtle egg is found to be moldy or damaged, remove it promptly to prevent it from affecting the hatching of other soft-shell turtle eggs.

Wild turtles are a protected animal. Do not catch or eat wild turtles and their eggs without professional qualifications.