Canadian Geese Eggs rolled into pond ~ any hope?

[whattheduck]

I work in an industrial area on a large pond. We have geese EVERYWHERE and discovered a nest. I've just been informed by my coworker (goose wisperer that checks on the geese families every spring/summer) that her clutch of eggs have rolled into the water. The mama has not returned that we are aware of (or can see from the window).

Should we move the eggs back into the nest? How long can eggs survive in cool water? Any suggestions or time lines I should keep in mind before intervening?

Any help is appreciated...

 

[Fishwife]

Hello.. this must be frustrating for you.. I suspect the embryos are not alive. You have no idea how long they were submerged, and if they were oxygen deprived and by some miracle still living, you never know what damage was done. When my goose rolled eggs into the water, or the gander, or whatever, we disposed of them.

If anyone disagrees, surely they will step forward and let you know their chances.. I do know the egg shells are permeable, so pond water will have seeped inside, for god knows how long..