Reproductive Problems

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Egg-binding is a fairly common problem among female box turtles.

This condition results when a pregnant female cannot pass an egg

by herself.  She typically strains excessively against the

obstruction.  The egg may be oversized, or there may be metabolic

or other reasons for her inability to pass the egg without

assistance.  Radiographs (x-rays) are usually made to confirm

that the female is, in fact, fertile with eggs.  Then, hormone

injections and sometimes aspiration of the egg's contents are

necessary to expel the stubborn egg.



Several other conditions are seen in reproductively active female

box turtles.  Metritis (infection of the uterus) and egg-yolk

peritonitis (ruptured egg-yolk or yolks within the body cavity)

are the most common.