How can you tell if a chicken egg is fertilized or not and will hen automatically sit on it to hatch?

Here's how to tell if a chicken egg is fertilized and what to know about hens incubating:

Telling if an Egg is Fertilized

* Candling: This is the most reliable method. Hold the egg up to a bright light (like a flashlight). Look for:

* A dark, round spot: This is the developing embryo.

* Blood vessels: These will be visible in a fertilized egg as a network of red lines.

* A clear, translucent egg: This indicates an unfertilized egg.

* Time: If an egg is laid by a hen that has access to a rooster, there's a chance it's fertilized. Fertilized eggs usually start showing signs of development within a few days.

Hens and Incubation

* Broodiness: Hens naturally become "broody" - they want to sit on and hatch eggs. They will often stop laying, fluff up their feathers, and stay on the nest continuously.

* Not Automatic: While a broody hen will naturally sit on eggs, it's not guaranteed. A hen may decide to abandon a nest for various reasons (like disturbance, lack of suitable nesting space, or even just a change of mind).

* Incubation Time: If a hen is incubating, it takes around 21 days for a chick to hatch.

Important Considerations

* Ethical Issues: Don't intentionally encourage a hen to sit on an egg that you know isn't fertile. This can be stressful for the hen and a waste of her time and energy.

* Hatching Success: Even with a fertilized egg and a broody hen, there's no guarantee of a successful hatch. A hen might accidentally break the egg, or the embryo may not develop properly.

If you're interested in hatching chicks, consider:

* An incubator: This provides controlled temperature and humidity, increasing the chances of successful hatching.

* Purchasing fertile eggs: You can buy these from a reputable breeder.

* Finding a broody hen: This can be a fun experience but remember it comes with the above-mentioned challenges.

Let me know if you have more questions!