How do hens reproduce?

1. Fertilization:

* Rooster's Role: A rooster has a special organ called a cloaca that releases sperm. He mounts the hen and uses this cloaca to transfer sperm into her cloaca.

* Hen's Role: The hen has a cloaca too, which is where the egg is released. When the sperm and egg meet inside the hen's cloaca, fertilization occurs.

2. Egg Formation:

* Yolk Development: The fertilized egg begins to develop within the hen's body. The yolk, which is the nutritious part of the egg, is formed in the ovary.

* Egg White Formation: As the yolk travels down the oviduct, layers of egg white (albumen) are added, providing more nutrients and protection.

* Shell Formation: The egg then passes through the shell gland, where the hard outer shell is formed.

* Laying: Finally, the fully formed egg is laid through the hen's cloaca.

Important Notes:

* Not All Eggs Are Fertilized: A hen can lay eggs without mating with a rooster. These eggs are not fertilized and won't hatch.

* Incubation: For a fertilized egg to hatch, it needs to be incubated at the right temperature for about 21 days.

* Chickens: A hatched fertilized egg will develop into a baby chick.

Let me know if you have any other questions!