What to Do When You Find a Seemingly Abandoned Egg
Much like a perplexing mystery, finding a seemingly abandoned egg can leave one questioning what steps to take. Whether it appears to be a chicken egg in a grocery store, a bird’s egg on a sidewalk, or an egg nestled in a corner, there are several practical steps to consider in such a situation. Understanding the potential scenarios can guide you towards the best course of action.
Identifying the Egg
Most people can easily identify an egg, but it’s important to understand that the appearance of an egg doesn’t always indicate its origin. It could be a naturally laid egg from a bird, a misplaced egg from a chicken, or even a grocery store egg that has been left out. If you come across an egg in a natural setting, consider the context to determine its potential origins.
Understanding the Egg’s Fate
In most scenarios, there is little that can be done to save the egg or encourage the parents to return. If the egg is freshly laid, it is not incubated, and therefore it does not have an embryo. Grocery store eggs from hens that do not see roosters are also infertile. Similarly, wild bird eggs left in the open or those removed from a nest will also not have an embryo due to lack of incubation.
Depending on the stage of the embryo, if inside the egg, it is likely already deceased because of the absence of temperature control and possibly due to exposure to cold temperatures. If a wild bird has lost an egg, especially early in the incubation process, they will typically replace it. However, if incubation has already begun, the bird will simply continue with the remaining eggs.
What You Can Do
If you find a bird’s egg, the best course of action is to observe it. If it is an egg of a protected species, you should contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center or a bird rescue organization. These organizations are equipped to handle eggs and can determine if the egg is viable or if the bird is in need of assistance.
In less urgent situations, you can still do your part by providing a warm environment for the egg. Place the egg in a soft, dry, and warm area. You can use socks to create a cozy nesting bed. If the egg is viable, you should contact a local bird rescue or wildlife rehabilitation center to facilitate the hatchling’s care. Believe it or not, if you do decide to keep the egg until it hatches, you will need to provide food for the hatchling until it is ready to leave the nest.
Additional Advice
Wildlife experts like those at the Audubon society can provide valuable advice on how to handle such situations. They can also guide you on how to properly handle and care for the egg or hatchling once they are ready.
Retailers and pet stores may also offer insights into the care of eggs or young birds, particularly for non-native species. However, when dealing with wild birds, it is crucial to follow local regulations and avoid causing distress to the birds or the egg.
For those interested in bird watching and caring for local wildlife, there are many resources available. Books, online forums, and local nature centers can provide valuable information on bird behavior, nesting habits, and how to coexist with local wildlife in a responsible manner.
Remember, your actions can have a significant impact on wildlife. By following the guidelines provided, you can make a positive difference and help protect our feathered friends.
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