Broody off the nest

[Crusty McPottydoodle]

I saw my broody Australorp in the run and so took the opportunity to go out and remove the non-fertile eggs and I noticed that the eggs are cool.

Does this mean that the hatch is doomed?

 

[sourland]

No. It is natural for the eggs to cool somewhat while the hen goes out to eat, drink, and defecate. How do you think wild fowl have survived all these years when they must forage for food while brooding?

 

[Crusty McPottydoodle]

Quote:
I figured it must be okay, but after reading how carefully incubator temps should be kept constant, I was a little concerned. I'll relax and trust mama to know best.

We are on day 6 (they went under her on Friday night) and I can hardly wait to see if we have success.