My neighbor found snapping turtle eggs while digging. The eggs must be moved. What should we do with the eggs?

Question

Should the eggs be moved to a new nest we create?
Does it make sense to try to incubate the eggs and release the turtles when they hatch?
What is the best approach?

Answer 1

It is a VERY risky business for anybody, but if you DO want to attempt, there are some very special things you need to do:

"As a general rule, the eggs are safe to touch or move from the nest only within few hours after being laid by the turtle. There is a possibility though, that saving eggs which have been already disturbed later might still result in a turtle being hatched, so even with slim chances it's always worth to try the impossible - miracles do happen in nature and it's a god idea to go the extra mile. "

Check the link and scroll DOWN for all the requirements.
http://www.chelydra.org/snapping_turtle_incubator.html

Answer 2

Fleigen has the fabulous theory approximately fencing. canines dig up the eggs. So do skunks, raccoons, and foxes. do not, regardless of the undeniable fact that, disturb the eggs not enable human beings to accomplish that. that's purely too ordinary to kill the embryos. i might have the skill to injury out with it yet I have been given my Ph.D. engaged on turtles. it rather is not likely that somebody from a resue or animal administration group is acquainted with what to do. purely wait and notice for 2-3 months.

Answer 3

Take a large shovel and try to only loosen the dirt in a circle around the eggs. Next move the entire dirt pile somewhere else. Like gator eggs the orientation of the eggs is important so try to only move the dirt around and underneath...

Answer 4

I would contact your local Zoo or College with a biology department and ask if they would like to come and remove the eggs for you. It would be great for the zoo, or the students as a learning experience.

Answer 5

i wouldnt incubate the eggs, that probably will kill them.
the mother probably knows where the eggs are, maybe just leave them there.