Can I stick mail-order eggs under my hen?

[ShockValue]

I'm curious about the timing of sticking eggs under a broody.

If one of my hens goes broody, and I get some eggs shipped quickly (a few days to my door) can I stick them under her, or would it be too late by then? How soon do the eggs need to be under her for the timing to work out?

 

[Teila]

The eggs do not start 'developing' until they are under the broody or in the right conditions (incubator). I believe the time period is approximately 10 days.

If your hen goes broody and it is her first time, maybe give her a couple of 'dud' eggs for approximately 4 days and then order your fertile eggs when you know she is serious. When they arrive, leave them for 24 hours to 'settle' before putting them under the broody.

Happy chickens!