Can you use eggs a broody has sat on for day that are not fertile?

You can use eggs that a broody hen has sat on for a few days, even if they are not fertile, but there are a few things to consider:

Benefits:

* Warmth: The eggs have been incubated at a consistent temperature, which can be beneficial for hatching other eggs.

* Moisture: The broody hen will have kept the eggs moist, which is essential for development.

* Broodiness: A broody hen is already in "mother mode," which means she'll likely continue to sit on the eggs, providing warmth and turning them, even if they are not her own.

Drawbacks:

* Limited time: The eggs will only have received a few days of incubation, so you'll need to put them into an incubator or under a different broody hen to continue the process.

* Contamination: While the hen is generally good at keeping the eggs clean, there is a risk of contamination, especially if the eggs were exposed to outside elements.

* Uneven incubation: The hen may not have turned the eggs consistently, which can affect development.

What to do:

1. Clean the eggs: Gently wipe the eggs with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Check for cracks: Discard any eggs with cracks or other visible damage.

3. Place in an incubator or under another broody hen: If using an incubator, follow the instructions for your specific model. If placing under another broody hen, make sure she is willing to accept the new eggs.

4. Monitor closely: Continue to monitor the eggs for signs of development, such as air cells, veins, and a change in color.

Note: You should never use eggs that have been sat on for more than a few days without being fertile, as they are likely to be contaminated and unsuitable for incubation.

Overall, using eggs that a broody hen has sat on for a few days can be beneficial, but it's important to be aware of the risks and take precautions to ensure the eggs are clean and have the best chance of hatching.