McCord's Box Turtles: Breeding and Raising the World’s Greatest Ambassador Species

In this follow-up episode of Turtle Tea with TTPG, Wendy Montroy and Anthony Pierlioni move from basic care into the specialized world of breeding McCord’s Box Turtles. This conversation goes beyond simple husbandry to explore the evolving mindset of the modern keeper and the critical role the private sector plays in keeping this species from vanishing forever. Anthony reflects on his personal journey as a breeder, discussing how his focus has shifted from merely hatching eggs to the more important goal of sharing information and using these animals to advocate for turtle conservation globally. Key topics covered in this episode include: The Breeding Mission: The necessity of establishing a community of breeders who can ensure the species survives for generations to come. Technique and Timing: Understanding the balance between size and age for maturity, the role of natural cooling, and how to identify seasonal triggers for egg production. Incubation Insights: Managing eggs, the specific challenges of sex determination, and using lower temperatures to produce more robust hatchlings. Hatchling Success: Practical advice on setting up neonates in high-humidity environments and the best methods for introducing them to a staple diet. The Path Forward: A look at the importance of maintaining genetic diversity through ACTS and why transparency among keepers is the most effective way to save animals. Whether you are an experienced keeper or a newcomer to the community, this episode provides a blueprint for managing a species that no longer exists in the wild and explains why their survival depends entirely on the dedication of human caretakers. Connect with Our Guest: ⁠Anthony Pierlioni ⁠Find him on ⁠YouTube⁠ at ⁠JustTurtles⁠, follow him on Instagram ⁠@JustTurtles⁠, or reach out via email at ⁠[email protected]⁠. Not a TTPG member yet? Join us! The ⁠Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group⁠ is full of the kindest, most knowledgeable and FUN turtle people on the planet! For more information on turtle conservation and husbandry, visit ⁠Turtletea.org⁠ or join the ⁠Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG)⁠ community.