Posted by laura anderson on April 25, 2007

Q: My cat discovered a mallard duck's nest. I saw the mother nearby. I got my cat as soon as I figured out what was going on, but I know the duck saw the cat at her nest, and I know my cat's scent must be on the nest. It's getting dark, and there is still no sign of the mother duck returning to her nest. Will she come back, or should I rescue the eggs?

Habitat: suburban/yard

State: Virginia

Habitat: suburban/yard

A: I'm not clear whether your duck has actually started incubation or is in the process of laying her clutch. Until she "decides" her clutch is complete, she will only visit the nest to lay that day's egg and spends most of her time elsewhere. If incubation has indeed begun, however, then it's important for her to be on the nest for most of the day, with only short intervals away. In any event, the odor of the cat should have no effect although seeing the cat there may reduce her willingness to complete her clutch and/or incubate - can't be sure. I'd keep an eye on the nest but not try to incubate the eggs myself unless you're absolutely sure she isn't returning. To hatch the eggs, you'd need an incubator and then a place to keep/raise any young that hatch.

Hope this helps. Good luck with your nest.

John Wiessinger ( April 26, 2007)