Robins at night

[Robin Watche]

We have a Robin nest on our patio in a flower pot, first of 4 eggs hatched today. We are concerned -- the parents left the nest tonight, very diligent during the day. Baby is completely hatched but no mother keeping him/her warm. Should we put warming pad under the pot to keep baby/remaining eggs warm? Do they usually leave the nest at night? Mama was also gone last night, but had returned by daylight.

[Thunderbird+]

I hope the robin has not abandoned the nest due to being scared off by a prowling cat or something, that would be a real shame!!. I think all you can do is keep any activity near the nest down to a minimum and just hope the robin will return. I do know that sometimes that if they feel under threat they will give up and start again somewhere considered safer. I hope she dose return though. Good Luck.

[Robin Watche]

Thunderbird, thanks so much for your reply. The robin does return each morning and sits the nest diligently. She doesn't appear to be feeding the first (and only hatchling so far out of 4). We checked on the baby lots last night. At first he held his mouth wide open, then later in the night he just slept with his back facing the open part of the nest. No feeding action, just breathing. Mother is there though.

[Thunderbird+]

If (Mama) is the European red breasted robin, they are fairly active around dusk and often one of the last birds to quit singing in the evening and will often continue long after dark under a street light, this is pretty typical behaviour for them. I was glad to mama came back, I think this must be a good sign. You may not always see a beak full of goodies on her return, it could be that she has semi digested grubs etc and may regurgitate them in a palitable form for her young, she may also fly out to get rid of droppings to keep the nest spick and span. Mothers usually know what they'r doing and have a strong instinctive-maternal bond (Hope I'm righit here). I think you are privilaged to be able to view her commings and goings at close quarters without causing any disturbance. Best Wishes.