Breeding / Frogs, newts and turtles
Painted turtle
Frogs, newts and turtles · Easy

Breeding the painted turtle

Females nest on land from late May to July and may lay two or three clutches a year; hatchlings often overwinter in the nest.

Step by step

Pairing

Buy a pair of adults.

Breeding tank

A large pond with a nesting area.

What starts it

A cool winter and warm spring.

Eggs and young

About 2-20 eggs per clutch (typically 5-9); hatch in 72-80 days.

Raising the fry

Hatchlings eat insects and pellets.

Common mistakes
  • Poor water
  • No basking
  • No nest site

Male or female

Males have long front claws, a longer, thicker tail and are smaller; females are larger.

Can I breed it in my tank?

  • Good for a first breeding project.

Day-by-day plan

Typical for frogs, newts and turtles

  1. Day 0Eggs

    Needs a special setup. Read the species guide first.

A general guide for this breeding type. Days change with temperature and species.

Simulator: guided

Stage 1 of 1Eggs

Needs a special setup. Read the species guide first.

Simulator: try it yourself

Set up a virtual breeding tank and see what would likely happen.

No spawning
  • Without live or frozen food the parents aren't in breeding condition.

An educational estimate from the breeding rules, not a promise.