Hi
I asked about my blue tits not hatching last week and still no signs of babies. Mum is still on the nest but not seen dad - although unable to watch all the time. She does leave the 8 eggs now and again but for only a short while- often returning with a feather or twig- not sure if that is to keep her or the eggs warm. Can these eggs still hatch and if not- when ,or will, she realise that its just not going to happen? It is quite distressing to see her so determined to continue and I really hope her determination will pay off and she will have at least a couple of chicks. Nest box cameras should carry a warning that they can lead to stress !!!!!
yvonne xx
Hi Vonny
Sorry no-one replied before.
Sometimes eggs are laid that have not been fertilised by the male and so will never hatch.
It can take 2-3 weeks for eggs to hatch (my blackbirds eggs hatched after 19 days) Anything much after this and I'd say it's unlikely they will hatch. Hopefully the parents will try again for another brood.
Hope this helps
Pipit