Broody hen left eggs on day 18 for possibly overnight....is all hope lost?

[slg2007]

This is my first time trying to hatch eggs with a broody. I found her off the eggs on the morning of day 18 and they were cold. Not sure if she was off all night or just for a few hours that morning. I had candled the eggs on day 16 and all looked viable. Now it's day 20 and no pipping so far. I am a worried mama! Is all hope lost or is there still a chance?

 

[Poultry parent]

if the embryos were moving when you candled them hope might not be lost, just be aware that temp changes can really lower the hatch rate, if none pip by day 21 then i don't think they will. i'm sorry that happened!

 

[slg2007]

Great news! Broody got off her nest for a bit today so I was able to see the eggs. One has definitely pipped, right at the 20 day mark so I guess there is still hope for the other 3.

 

[Poultry parent]

great!