Hey,

Sorry if this is a silly question but I have just inherited two tortoises and so am new at this.

I believe my tortoises are around 60 years old. The female laid an egg last night and we would like to try and hatch them in the future so have a few questions:-
* As she is so old will her eggs be fertile?
* After she has laid the eggs how quickly do I need to get them into an incubator?
* What is better a home made incubator or to byu one? (if buy then any suggestions?)
* Once into the incubator do I do anything? How long does it take?

Also is there any other advice that I may need to know about caring for them?

Many thanks
Toni

Hi Toni,  to our site.  You say you have two torts, firstly are they male and female (as females can lay eggs without a male, but they will be infertile).

If they are male and female, or you want us to try and check for you, would you please upload some photos for the top, underside and tail area. 

Do you know what species they are, again we can help you id them with photos.  The species of tort, will then determine the approximate incubation time.

I have used the home made incubator very successfully, here is a link to breeding torts, on the left hand column all the areas of breeding are covered http://www.tortoise-protection-group.org.uk/site/133.asp

I hope this helps, let us know how you get on, regards Vivienne