How to Breed a Texas Box Turtle

Box turtles, a breed common to North America and Asia, are omnivores and come equipped with a dome-shaped shell. In North America, they are commonly found in southern states such as Texas, Arizona, and Mississippi. However due to human encroachment into their habitat the species is being threatened. If you are a turtle lover and you would like to help, one thing that you can do is breed them to help keep the breed from disappearing. 

Things You'll Need

  • A pair of mature box turtles
  • Box
  • Moist soil
  • Turtle foods
  • Incubator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a pair of mature Texas box turtles for breeding. Texas box turtles are sexually mature when they are 5 years or older.

       

    • 2

      Prepare a mating box for the two box turtles. The mating box should be at least 15 inches deep. Put a layer of moist soil inside the box. Make it just enough so the turtle can bury its eggs in it. The box should be wide enough to accommodate at least seven eggs.

    • 3

      Monitor the two box turtles every few days and check if the female turtle has laid eggs. If it has, take the eggs from the box and put them into the incubator with the vermiculite and water. Vermiculite is a natural mineral and will help to keep the eggs warm. Be careful not to turn the eggs over. Each egg must have its own separate spot, so dig individual holes for the eggs.

    • 4

      Put a cover over the incubator to seal it. Maintain the temperature inside the incubator at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Wait two to three months for the eggs to hatch.