General Care Discussion :: Clueless about Nesting...or whatever!

[CassieJade]

3 RES - 1 tank
About to move smallest turt, Jade, into it's own tank. So they don't get crowded.

Not sure if I have a female, turtles are just turning 1 y/o.

If I do have a female, when will she start laying eggs, if she dose?

What are the signs to watch for that a RES is nesting or about to laying an egg? What things should I put into the tank to accomidate her when/if she dose? I'm asking because my two bigger turts love each other and I always catch them flirting. I'm keeping them together because they are IN LOVE! haha not sure, thats just what I say!

[vic021]

i heard about 3 years they eggs but im not quite sure

[CassieJade]

No one has any experience with this? No one knows!?!? Just let me know about your turtles mating, laying eggs, anything??

[CassieJade]

Anyone??

[steve]

The time will vary, though it's possible at 3 years. Most RES keepers have difficulty with nesting issues, so you should do your best not to encourage it.

[CassieJade]

Thanks Steve
I observe how they treat each other. I believe Jack Johnson is a female! Josiah is the dominant and biggest turt. They always flirt. Under water they dance nose to nose all the time.

I figured I would move the smallest turt, Jade, into its own tank. To give all the turtles more swimming room. Also to keep Jade safe. Jade is still so small compared to the others.

Is this a good idea? And, what are some things I can do to prevent nesting?

[steve]

Keeping males and females separate would be best, though most people don't do this until there is fighting/bullying or other behavioral issues.

[turtleluv]

My female turtles were around 5-6 yrs when they started laying eggs and they had no exposure to males. They will still need to lay eggs. I wouldn't worry about this for awhile if they are still young. You are likely not even accurate with the sex of the turtle at that age. I didn't know my female was a female until she dug a hole and laid eggs. When your turtles reach sexual maturity you may need to separate them if the male pesters the female too much. For now they should get along fine.

Hope this helps.