How to Breed Egyptian Dwarf Tortoises

Egyptian dwarf tortoises are small Mediterranean tortoises. Their small size and friendly disposition make them excellent pets and many owners are interested in breeding their tortoises. Though breeding is relatively simple, it's important to keep in mind that hatchlings will need lots of care. If you do not have space for more tortoises or do not have new homes lined up for the babies, avoid breeding your tortoise.

Things You'll Need

Incubator
Sand
Vermiculite
Thermometer
Temperature Gauge

Instructions

- 1
  House at least one male and female together. Egyptian tortoises are prolific breeders and will mate frequently during the breeding season, which typically lasts from April through September. The male will mount the female, and the two tortoises may periodically head-butt one another. If you notice fighting or damage to one of the tortoise's shells, separate the tortoises and try again next breeding season.
- 2
  Provide your female with a place to lay eggs. Sand mixed with potting soil provides an ideal nesting spot. The mixture should be at least 5 inches deep because females like to dig and then bury the eggs. Your tortoise may pace before laying eggs and may be protective of the nest for an hour or two after egg-laying.
- 3
  Remove the eggs from the nest. Carefully dig them up, making sure not to rotate them from their original position.
- 4
  Place the eggs in an incubator. Ideal incubation temperatures are between 82 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Lower temperatures tend to produce males, while higher temperatures are more likely to result in female hatchlings.
- 5
  Watch for babies between 80 and 130 days. The baby tortoise will first pip out a tiny portion of the shell with its beak, then gradually emerge from the shell. Hatching may take up to 24 hours. Hatchlings are unlikely to eat until they have fully absorbed their yolk sac, but be sure to provide hatchlings with fresh food and water.