Experiences and Insights on Successfully Incubating Pancake Tortoise Eggs

The Unexpected Discovery

Several months ago, a routine examination revealed that a younger pancake tortoise, previously identified as a female, was actually a male. Shortly thereafter, the first eggs were found in the terrarium. This was an exciting development, marking the beginning of a fascinating journey into the world of tortoise incubation.

Initiating Incubation and Initial Challenges

Without delay, incubation of the first egg commenced, aiming to create optimal conditions for hatching a female. Initially, an Egg-O-Bator incubator was used.

• Temperature: Set to 32°C with the assumption that this would promote the development of female offspring.
• Humidity: Maintained at 70% to ensure an ideal climate.

Vermiculite was chosen as the substrate, a proven material for reptile egg incubation. However, a critical mistake was made: the vermiculite was moistened. For pancake tortoises, the substrate should be dry, as excessive moisture can harm the eggs.

To keep track of the incubation process, the date of egg laying was affixed to the plastic box containing the egg.

The Loss of the First Egg

Despite a swift response and replacing the moist vermiculite with dry material, the first egg could not be saved. The initial moisture, high humidity, and insufficient ventilation in the Egg-O-Bator likely led to the egg's loss. This experience highlighted the importance of proper incubation conditions from the very beginning.

Adjustments and Improvements

Important lessons were learned from these mistakes:

• Good ventilation: Good ventilation of the incubator is important to prevent mould.
• Using Dry Substrate: Ensured the vermiculite remained completely dry and regularly checked for moisture or mold.
• Switching Incubators: The Egg-O-Bator proved unsuitable, leading to a switch to the Bruja Model 400, an incubator with precise temperature control and better ventilation. Even temperature distribution and adequate air circulation are crucial to avoid condensation and mold.
• Improving Monitoring: To closely observe the incubation process, a surveillance camera was placed in front of the incubator's viewing window. This allowed for checking the egg's condition at any time without opening the incubator.

Success with the Second Egg

With these adjustments, the incubation of the second egg was successful. After 146 days, a healthy young pancake tortoise hatched. This success underscored the importance of correct incubation conditions. The young animal weighed an impressive 14g and measured 3.9 x 3.8 cm. A third egg is currently in incubation and is expected to hatch soon.

Insights for Successful Incubation

• Use Dry Substrate: Use dry vermiculite and regularly check it for moisture.
• Choose the Right Incubator: An incubator with precise temperature control and good ventilation, such as the Bruja Model 400, is essential.
• Enhance Monitoring: Affixing the date of egg laying on the plastic box helps keep track of the incubation period. A surveillance camera in front of the incubator's viewing window allows for progress observation without disturbing internal conditions.
• Regular Checks: Frequently monitor temperature, humidity, and the condition of the eggs. Keeping an incubation diary can be helpful.
• Act Quickly on Errors: Immediate response to issues is crucial, but establishing correct initial conditions is key.
• Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Consistent conditions promote healthy embryo development.
• Documentation: Record all observations and settings for reference in future incubations.
• Change in temperature: Now at 32.8 °C to further increase the change to females.
• Change in humidity: The humidity was kept relatively constant at 70 %.

After Hatching

• Provide Optimal Housing Conditions: The juvenile tortoise requires a terrarium with suitable temperatures, UV lighting, and hiding places.
• Ensure Healthy Nutrition: A balanced, age-appropriate diet supports growth and health.
• Monitor Development: Regular health checks help detect potential problems early.

Conclusion

Incubating pancake tortoise eggs demands careful preparation and continuous attention. Experiences show that initial mistakes, such as using moist substrate or setting temperatures too high, can lead to the loss of an egg. However, by learning from these errors and making appropriate adjustments, future incubations can be successful.

The joy of seeing a healthy juvenile hatch compensates for all efforts and challenges. With proper preparation, patience, and diligence, success is within reach. Witnessing the miracle of life up close is fascinating, and these experiences can help others achieve similar successes.