How to Raise Robin Eggs

Every spring birds get to work building nests in which to raise their young. Robins are especially notorious for building their nests in areas with high human traffic. It is not uncommon to find eggs that have been displaced by strong winds or even siblings that have hatched first and then rolled them out of the nest. If the egg has no damage it can possibly be hatched.

Things You'll Need

  • Robin eggs
  • Plastic shoe box
  • Aluminum Foil
  • 45watt bulb
  • Mobile light socket on extension cord
  • Old sock
  • Water
  • Charcoal pencil
  • Drill
  • Construction glue
  • Thermometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Drill six small holes on each side of the plastic shoe box. These provide air circulation which is vital for the eggs to survive.

    • 2

      Use construction glue to attach the light socket to the lid of the shoe box. Also glue a piece of aluminum foil to one side of the shoe box.

    • 3

      Place the thermometer in one of the holes that was drilled into the box's sides. This allows for the temperature to be read easily. The temperature should never exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and never drop below 98 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature goes too high, drill a couple more holes in the box to allow the excess heat to escape. If the temperature goes too low add more foil to another side of the box's interior.

    • 4

      Wet an old sock in water and place in one corner of the box. This allows for moisture to be released in the air which is vital for the egg's proper development. If the air is too dry, the developing chick can become stuck to the egg's membrane.

    • 5

      Draw an ̶0;X̶1; on one side of the robin egg and then flip it 180 degrees and draw a ̶0;O̶1;. This will allow some distinction between which side is which. This is important because three times a day the eggs(s) will have to be rotated to ensure proper development.

    • 6

      Place the eggs in the box and screw the light bulb into the socket. Plug the socket's cord in and then place the top on the box. If the eggs are fertile and weren't damaged before they were found they should hatch in 12 to 14 days.