Expert: Roger Lederer - 5/17/2008

Question
We have had a pair of geese in our pond since early spring.  Roughly 2 weeks ago we saw the mother goose sitting on her eggs for most of the day, only coming out for food maybe 1-2 daily for about 15 minutes.  Today, I came home and my neighbor said the parents left this morning, so I assume the eggs have been sitting in the nest for 5-8 hours, and today was quite chilly.  I live in Forte Oglethorpe GA.  Today was about 78 degrees maybe.  anyway, my neighbor picked the eggs up and put them on his deck (WHY, I DONT KNOW).  He then calls me and says he is going out of town, do I want them.  I reluctantly brought them in, because I have never even see a goose egg... brought it in.. I currently have the 4 eggs in a basket with a heating pad and towel under them and a wet towel covering the basket... This was the best that I could do... so my question is.... Do you think they are still alive???  Can they hatch with the conditions that I have provided?  I tried the candling thing and I saw what appeard to be a baby goose.  It was about 1/2 full. Looked like I saw a wing, but who knows, could be wishful thinking... I was wondering at this point would they be moving? if so, would I have been able to tell?

Answer
I seriously doubt if they are alive. If they were incubated two weeks and then abandoned for 5-8 hours in cool weather,they most likely died. If by some chance they are alive, they need to be incubated at 100 -102 degrees for another 10 days or so. Best bet is to call your local wildlife rehabilitation center for help.