I noticed a duck nest about 3 weeks ago in my front bushes. Ive been watching the nest closely over the past weeks and havent seen the mother since the first time I saw the nest. I was wondering if i can do somehtin with them , maybe bring them in and try to hatch them. I hope someone can help me out
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abandoned duck eggs?
mikeyz28
May 16, 2005 04:05 PM
Replies (2)
branta
May 18, 2005 06:44 AM
The hen will not begin incubating the eggs until the entire clutch is laid. She will lay 1 every day or 2 until finished. Mallard clutch size is typically 10-14 eggs. If she has truely abandoned the eggs let nature take its course. Only recommend artificial incubation IF the hen is confirmed dead.
Added a link to rehabbers by state if you need it.
Hope this helps with your decision.
mommamallard
May 20, 2005 10:36 AM
Hi! Have you counted the eggs? If there are no added eggs to the nest in 3 weeks, it is abandoned. The eggs could still be incubated if you wish to raise some babies! I would recommend candling them though to make sure they were not abandoned half way thru development. If the egg is dark inside when candled, toss them or bury them as they will soon STINK! If eggs keep showing up, she is probably laying early morning and you dont see her. She will start to sit once she gets enough eggs in the clutch. Good luck!
