Posted by DEBBIE DAMICO on June 1, 2007

Q: How do I incubate abandoned mallard duck eggs. I think some were eaten by possum or racoon. There are 2 left. Please advise.

Habitat: suburban/yard

State: Illinois

Habitat: suburban/yard

A: Are we talking about eggs that were already being incubated? If so, then bringing them up to temp within a few hours is important. If the nest has only been in the process of completion (not all eggs laid and female has not yet begun incubation) then a delay in incubation is not crucial.

I can't give you the particulars about incubation but there are plenty of online sites that can. Of course, you should have an incubator. Since many schools have an incubator for raising chicks, that's where I'd look for one. Actually, if you know a teacher, she/he may be able to get one quickly for you and even help you with details. Without an incubator, I think your chances are very slim. You can order one of the inexpensive ones, but, as earlier mentioned, if the eggs were being incubated already, there isn't time. Feel free to get back to me if you have further questions or need to clarify something and I'll do my best.

Best of luck.

John Wiessinger ( June 1, 2007)