Shikra eggs can typically be left unattended for up to 18 days during the incubation process. The female shikra starts sitting on the eggs as soon as the first egg is laid and is responsible for the entire incubation period. However, she may occasionally leave the eggs unattended for short periods to forage for food or attend to other needs.
The Incubation Period of Shikra Eggs
The incubation period for shikra eggs is 18 days, which is the time elapsed between the laying of the first egg and the appearance of the first hatchling. During this time, the female shikra is responsible for keeping the eggs warm and protected.
Factors Affecting the Unattended Time
Image source: ShiKRA by Suvendu suvo
While shikra eggs can be left unattended for up to 18 days, there are several factors that can influence the length of time the eggs can be safely left unattended:
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Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, can affect the viability of the eggs. The female shikra may need to leave the nest more frequently to regulate the temperature of the eggs.
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Food Availability: If the female shikra needs to spend more time foraging for food, she may need to leave the eggs unattended for longer periods.
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Clutch Size: The size of the clutch can also affect the unattended time. Larger clutches may require more frequent feeding and attention from the female, leading to longer periods of unattended time.
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Disturbances: If the nest is disturbed by predators or other threats, the female shikra may be more likely to abandon the eggs, even if they have not been left unattended for an extended period.
Shikra Egg Abandonment
In some cases, shikra birds may abandon their eggs if they feel threatened or if the eggs are disturbed. This can happen even if the eggs have not been left unattended for a significant period. It is important to observe the nest from a distance and avoid disturbing the eggs or the parents.
Comparison with Other Bird Species
The length of time that bird eggs can be left unattended can vary depending on the species. Some birds, such as waterfowl, may leave their eggs unattended for longer periods, while others, such as songbirds, may be more attentive to their eggs.
Here’s a table comparing the unattended time for different bird species:
| Bird Species | Unattended Time |
|---|---|
| Shikra | Up to 18 days |
| Canada Goose | Up to 24 hours |
| American Robin | Up to 30 minutes |
| Bald Eagle | Up to 1 hour |
| Peregrine Falcon | Up to 2 hours |
As you can see, the shikra’s ability to leave its eggs unattended for up to 18 days is relatively high compared to other bird species.
Conclusion
In summary, shikra eggs can be left unattended for up to 18 days during the incubation process, with the female shikra responsible for the majority of the incubation duties. However, there are several factors that can influence the length of time the eggs can be safely left unattended, such as weather conditions, food availability, clutch size, and potential disturbances. It is important to observe the nest from a distance and avoid disturbing the eggs or the parents to ensure the successful hatching of the shikra chicks.
References:
– Pigeons.biz – Eggs Left Unattended
– Records of Zoological Survey of India – Shikra Nesting
– Reddit – Do Birds Leave Clutches of Eggs Unattended for Long Periods?
