Ask Lafeber

Will the Gouldian finches’ eggs hatch?

I have a pair of Gouldian finches. When I first checked the nest box on Wednesday, June 22, there were 2 eggs. Then when I checked again today, Sunday, June 26, there were 2 more eggs. The cock usually stays in the nest box during daytime. Sometimes the hen also goes inside and out the nest box during daytime. However, the hen does not incubate the eggs at night, she doesn’t stay in the nest box, likewise the cock. In this situation, will the eggs still hatch? Please advise. Thank you!

Hi Mike,

The eggs must be kept warm 24 hours/7 days a week so no, these eggs are not viable. If this is a first time pair, they are still learning. After the usual incubation time is up on these eggs I would remove the box and rest the pair for a few months, and then let them try again. Make sure there isn’t something that might be making them feel unsafe at night such as lights or noise – especially something coming from outside.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda