In this episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, host Wendy Montroy welcomes back expert breeder Ralph Till to dive into the specifics of breeding the Spider Tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides). They cover breeding group ratios, managing egg diapause, incubation parameters, and successful hatchling care strategies to support species conservation.
Key Topics Covered in This Episode:
– Why Spider Tortoises should be kept in breeding groups rather than as single pets
– Ideal male-to-female ratios (2.2 or 3.3) and breeding behavior after brumation
– Low reproductive output: Why Spider Tortoises only lay 1-4 eggs per year
– Step-by-step egg diapause protocol: Incubation temperatures (88-89F) and cooling periods (64F)
– Incubation timelines ranging from 154 days to over 300 days
– Essential hatchling care: Hydration, soaking routines, and closed-chamber setups
– Conservation status, captive population management, and bloodline trading
Guest Contact:
Ralph Till: rascal1843@aol.com
About Turtle Tea & TTPG:
Turtle Tea is a show dedicated to turtle and tortoise species, husbandry, and conservation, produced under the mission of the Turtle & Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG). Our goal is to build a digital library of expert knowledge for keepers, breeders, and conservationists of all experience levels.Learn more about TTPG and support chelonian conservation.
Website: https://www.ttpg.org/
Q&A Summary:
Q: What is the ideal group ratio for breeding Spider Tortoises?
A: Balanced ratios such as 2.2 or 3.3 work best. Having multiple males stimulates breeding interest, whereas single pair setups often result in lower activity.
Q: How do you handle Spider Tortoise egg diapause?
A: Eggs are placed in an incubator at 88-89F with ~80% humidity for 5 weeks, transferred to a cooling unit at 64F for 5 weeks, and then returned to the incubator until hatching.
Q: How often do Spider Tortoises lay eggs?
A: Females typically lay 1 egg per clutch, producing between 1 to 4 eggs per season.
Q: How long does it take for a Spider Tortoise egg to hatch?
A: Incubation times vary widely, typically taking anywhere from 154 days to well over 300 days depending on environmental triggers and diapause cycles.
Q: What is critical for Spider Tortoise hatchling care?
A: Daily soaking and access to clean water are vital from day one, as hatchlings require heavy hydration to thrive and develop smooth carapace growth.
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