How to Care for Red-Eared Slider Turtle Eggs in Gestation

Red-eared sliders will be mature enough for breeding at about 5 years of age, and you can encourage their breeding by preparing the ideal environment for them. A 30 gallon tank with a supply of warm, shallow water is ideal. The average gestation period for red-eared sliders is two months -- so before you have your turtles breed -- you should make sure you know how to care for the female during this critical time.

Things You'll Need

  • 20 gallon tank
  • Soil
  • Vermiculite
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep the male and female separate. This is to give the female privacy during the gestation period. Even you shouldn't handle the female, unless it's absolutely necessary.

    • 2

      Keep the water clean by changing the filter. Do not completely change the water in the tank.

    • 3

      Prepare a 20 gallon tank with a four inch layer of soil and vermiculite mixture. This is where your female will nest and lay her eggs.

    • 4

      Place the female in the smaller nesting tank, when you notice that she is spending more time on land, or digging for a place to lay her eggs.

    • 5

      Replace the female in her regular tank. She can rejoin other turtles at this time.

    • 6

      Keep the eggs that were laid in the smaller tank until they hatch.