Incubation time is directly proportional to the
temperature of the sand at the depth where the eggs have been ensconced.
At 18 inches or more the sand acts as a huge heat sink moderating any
abrupt temperature changes. Incubation cannot begin until that temperature
reaches 77°(f). The faster that temperature increase the faster the eggs
develop and, in general, hatching can be expected anywhere from 45 to 65
days thereafter. |