Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Before You Touch the Eggs
Make sure the eggs have truly been abandoned. Robin mothers will not incubate their eggs until all of them have been laid. Robin males and females take turns watching and caring for the eggs. Just because you don't see the parent doesn't mean the eggs have been abandoned, and most experts will tell you your best bet is to leave the eggs alone: "Look but don't collect."
Contact the U.S. Geological Survey Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. According to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Endangered Species Act, it is often illegal to possess a wild egg, even if you have the best intentions. Continue only if the USGS gives you the green light.
Call your local wildlife center once you've received confirmation from the U.S. Geological Survey Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center that you may legally handle the eggs. The wildlife center may agree to take the eggs, which is preferable to novice care.
Caring for the Eggs at Home
Wrap each egg in a dry wash cloth and carefully carry them inside.
Place the eggs in a plastic bowl under a heat lamp. Make sure the eggs have a constant temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. You will have to turn the eggs every couple of hours, even throughout the night, to prevent overheating.
Wait until you see signs of movement within the egg and/or hatching. Robin's eggs will incubate for 12 to 14 days.
Once Your Eggs Have Hatched
Feed your hatched birds pureed cat food, worms and berry-flavored baby food with an eye dropper. Stick the dropper about halfway into the bird's mouth, as baby robins can't swallow very well. Feed about 1 oz. every 1 to 2 hours for the first two days. Be sure to include 1 oz. of fresh water with every feeding.
Increase the food amount to 1.5 oz. on days three and four, and 2 oz. on days five and six. After that, feed your robins enough food to keep them from chirping constantly.
Call your wildlife center for questions about releasing your birds into the wild.