Crocodile turtles generally start estrus every spring. When the temperature reaches 18 ℃, they will wake up from hibernation, and when the temperature reaches above 20 ℃, they will start estrus. After the crocodile turtle is in estrus, the breeder needs to select the male and female with suitable size, because when the crocodile turtle mates, the male will climb on the female's back, and some will bite the female turtle. If the female turtle is small, it cannot resist the attack of the male turtle. After the breeder selects the crocodile turtles, they should be put into the breeding tank and the water temperature should be kept at 25 ℃. When crocodile turtles mate, the male turtle will climb onto the back of the female turtle, and put the genitals into the female turtle's release hole, and then complete mating. When crocodile turtles mate, breeders need to ensure that the surrounding environment is quiet, so as to avoid loud noises disturbing their reproduction. Also observe them from time to time to avoid the female turtle being bitten by the male turtle. Female turtles will start laying eggs from May to August, and they can hatch baby turtles about 2 months after laying eggs.

Crocodile turtles generally mature in 4-5 years. If breeders prevent them from hibernating at an early age and raise them in a constant temperature environment, they only need 2-3 years to mature. Adult crocodile turtles will start mating from February to April every year and lay eggs from May to August every year.