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View Full Version : The long wait ...


PeterReynolds
28th April 2009, 10:35 AM
Well, there are still 18 unhatched eggs. 10 in the Blue Tit box and 8 in the Great Tit box, and both mothers are happily sitting there, with the odd visit from Dad with mealworms to keep their energy up.

The problem is, hatching is now overdue. The first Blue Tit egg was laid on April 11, and with a 12-16 day incubation period, should have starting hatching yesterday. How the wait goes on .... I'm betting that hatching will start tomorrow when I can't work from home and keep an eye on the camera !

The first Great Tit egg was laid on April 13. They are reported to incubate in 13-14 days, so again they are a day late too !

Must be the weather in these parts ...

Pine Marten
28th April 2009, 12:19 PM
To my knowledge, and correct me if i am wrong. The incubation dont usually start until last egg is laid. That is what i have always believed.

Pine Marten.

PeterReynolds
30th April 2009, 10:31 AM
Thanks Pine Marten, you're probably right - it makes perfect sense. Nothing on that in the books I have.

Sadly, i'm working away next week which your likely method suggests is hatching time :(

PeterReynolds
5th May 2009, 02:58 PM
... all 18 eggs hatched over the bank holiday weekend ... mother and children doing well !

Pine Marten
5th May 2009, 06:31 PM
Great news peter. Look forward to hearing about the young ones.

Pine Marten.