Caring for wild bird eggs is a task more suited to the birds themselves, but sometimes we can help. Follow these steps if you find a wild bird egg that appears to be abandoned.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Avoiding Legal Problems
Step 1. If possible, do not stir the egg
It is illegal to remove bird eggs from their natural habitats. In the US, for example, according to the Migratory Birds Act of 1918, it is illegal to take or take possession of any part, nest or egg of a wild species. You could be sentenced to up to six months in prison and will have to pay a fine of around $15,000 (around R$45,000).
Step 2. Replace the egg
If you find a wild bird and a nest nearby (which is empty or with similar eggs), you can try placing the egg in the nest. If you don't find a nest, don't look for it and don't think the egg has been abandoned.
- Some birds nest on the ground. Killdeer, for example, prefers to make his in gravel!
- Never take an egg from a nest.
Step 3. Find a wildlife organization
These organizations are licensed to care for and cure injured or orphaned birds. If you find wild bird eggs and you think something is wrong, contact a wildlife protection agency or search online for a wildlife rehabilitation organization.
- Do not take the egg(s) and take them to a rehabilitator. Instead, call a volunteer to direct you to the egg's location.
- Be aware that the rehabilitator may only be interested in the eggs of endangered species.
Method 2 of 2: Caring for Eggs
Step 1. Identify the species
If you choose to care for a wild bird's egg, it is necessary to know the incubation period of the species and what food should be provided to the litter. Fortunately, wild bird eggs are relatively easy to spot.
Step 2. Purchase an incubator
If you don't already have one, buy an electronic incubator with configurable options and a built-in fan. Incubation protocols for wild bird eggs are largely unknown, so it is necessary to follow the protocol for poultry eggs.
- Set up the incubator in an area where sunlight and wind currents do not fall directly.
- Before placing the eggs, turn the incubator on for a few hours with water in the small pot. This will stabilize her inner atmosphere.
Step 3. Be consistent
A successful incubation depends on four factors: temperature, humidity, ventilation and angle. Temperature is the most important factor and you should keep it constant at around 37.8 °C throughout the incubation.
- Keep the setter pot full. The relative humidity inside the incubator should be approximately 60%.
- Maintain good air circulation and halve the egg(s) at least three times a day. This will ensure their even heating.
Step 4. Don't be disappointed
Most wild bird eggs you encounter will not hatch at all. The incubation may have been interrupted or his inner membrane may have been damaged. In all cases, the embryo dies.
Step 5. Be prepared
If incubation is successful, you will need to feed the litter every 15-20 minutes from sunrise to sunset for two weeks. Wild bird diets vary greatly by species, so make sure you have the right types of food.