It takes anywhere from 80 to 130 days for a tortoise egg to hatch depending on the species and the environment. A temperature around 29°C is optimal for hatching and eggs incubated at a lower temperature will take longer to hatch. If the temperature is too high the embryo will not develop properly and the egg will not hatch.
Tortoise eggs need to be incubated in a moist environment as they will lose moisture through the pores in their shells. If the incubation environment is too dry the embryo will not develop properly and the egg will not hatch.
The sex of the tortoise hatchling is determined by the temperature at which the egg is incubated. A temperature of 29°C will produce equal numbers of male and female hatchlings. A temperature of 32°C will produce mostly female hatchlings while a temperature of 26°C will produce mostly male hatchlings.
It is important to turn tortoise eggs during incubation as they will not rotate on their own. Eggs that are not turned will not hatch. Eggs should be turned at least once a day and more frequently if possible.
Tortoise hatchlings are born with a yolk sac attached to their belly. This sac provides them with nourishment for the first few days of life. The sac will gradually shrink as the hatchling starts to feed on its own.
references:
https://www.tortoise.com/hatching-tortoise-eggs
https://www.reptilesmagazine.com/turtle-tortoise-care/hatching-tortoise-eggs/
https://www.tortoise trusts.org.uk/articles/incubation.htm
How long does it take for a tortoise egg to hatch?
On average it takes approximately 90-120 days for a tortoise egg to hatch.
How can you tell if a tortoise egg is going to hatch?
You can tell if a tortoise egg is going to hatch if it is hard and has a smooth surface.
How often do tortoises lay eggs?
Tortoises generally lay eggs once a year.
How many eggs does a tortoise usually lay?
A tortoise usually lays between 2 and 12 eggs at a time.
What is the ideal temperature for a tortoise egg to hatch?
The ideal temperature for a tortoise egg to hatch is between 79 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
Where do tortoises lay their eggs?
Tortoises usually lay their eggs in a nest that they have dug in the ground.
How deep does a tortoise nest need to be?
A tortoise nest needs to be at least 12 inches deep.
What happens if a tortoise egg is too cold?
If a tortoise egg is too cold it will not hatch.
What happens if a tortoise egg is too hot?
If a tortoise egg is too hot it will hatch early and the hatchling will be malformed.
How long can a tortoise egg survive without incubation?
A tortoise egg can survive for up to two weeks without incubation.
What is the ideal humidity for a tortoise egg?
The ideal humidity for a tortoise egg is between 70 and 80 percent.
What happens if the humidity is too high for a tortoise egg?
If the humidity is too high for a tortoise egg the egg will rot.
What happens if the humidity is too low for a tortoise egg?
If the humidity is too low for a tortoise egg the egg will not hatch.
What is the ideal incubation temperature for a tortoise egg?
The ideal incubation temperature for a tortoise egg is between 79 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the ideal incubation period for a tortoise egg?
The ideal incubation period for a tortoise egg is between 90 and 120 days.
