Rural Gardening: How cold is too cold to incubate eggs? , 1 by jab91864

jab91864 wrote:
My hens seem to lay throughout the day, even as late as 4pm !!! I find it extremely frustrating. I know on the weekends I go out several times during the day and collect eggs, often finding eggs that are still warm. My son collects Mon-Fri as I am at work. He can be intimidated by the hens if they are "guarding" eggs...lol. I find it funny.

I know they recommend you "store" eggs that will be incubated in a cool room 50ish I believe. If you think about it 50-55 is going to feel pretty chilled to the touch of a human hand. If you get an egg that has been laid in the coop inside a warm straw lined nest box shortly after laying (within an hour) it actually might be viable. What will it hurt to let them rest a couple days (right side up) and then slip them in the bator. If after 5 days you don't see any growth you will know you have to get to the eggs sooner -or- your roo isn't doing his thing...lol.

I am trying soooooooooooooooo hard not to incubate anything at this time but it's so hard to resist. My silkie hens have been broody (2 just gave up trying to hatch golf balls) but I know I have ATLEAST 3 more months of winter.

Good luck and let us know your results !!!!

Julie

I'm anxious to see what this guy throws for me !!