Keeping a male with a laying hen does not guarantee the hen's eggs are
fertile or will hatch. Culling fertile eggs prior to setting them in an
incubator can increase the number of eggs that will hatch. Fertile eggs from a
commercial hatchery are usually already sorted; however, it is usually wise to
check your eggs before setting them. Cracked eggs, thin-shelled such as
body-checks, and double-yolked eggs hatch very poorly. These eggs should be
removed before incubating.
Proper care of fertile eggs prior to incubation is essential for success. The
eggs should be collected within 4 hours from when they were laid. Never wash the
eggs unless absolutely necessary. Then use water warmer than the egg so the egg
sweats and releases the dirt. If you use cold water, the egg will contract and
pull the dirt and bacteria deeper into its pores.
If it is necessary to store fertile eggs before setting, store small-end down
at a temperature of 50°F to 65°F. Cell division can begin if temperatures exceed
82°F. Refrigerators can be used to store eggs only if room temperatures exceed
80°F. Modern frost-free refrigerators can dehydrate eggs stored more than a
couple of days. Never store eggs more than 10 days after the eggs are laid.
Hatchability drops quickly if they are stored for more than 10 days.
Transport fertile eggs in a protective carton, small end down. Do not leave
eggs in the sun or a hot-parked car. In winter, don't let the eggs get below
35°F.
It is best to bring the eggs to room temperature for a few hours prior to
setting them in the incubator.
