Animal Moms That Abandon Young

Sea Turtles

Mothers lay hundreds of eggs on the beach, cover them with sand, and return to the ocean—never seeing their hatchlings again.

Pandas (with Twins)

If a panda gives birth to twins, it typically abandons one cub, focusing its energy on raising the stronger one for better survival odds.

Frogs and Toads

Many frog species lay thousands of eggs in water and immediately leave, never knowing which, if any, tadpoles will survive.

Cuckoo

More of a “foster mom manipulator,” the cuckoo lays eggs in other birds’ nests and takes no part in raising its own chicks.

Insects (Most Species)

From butterflies to beetles, insects usually lay eggs and leave. The young are born alone and must fend for themselves from the start.

Reptiles (Snakes, Lizards)

Most reptiles abandon their eggs after laying. There’s no protection or care—just hope the eggs hatch before predators get to them.

Harp Seals

Mothers nurse their pups for just 12 days before leaving them alone on the ice. The pups stay vulnerable until they’re strong enough to swim.