Could this be a genetic problem?

[Cajunsamoan]

I have a BO/RIR hen that started laying in March. She lays very dark brown eggs that are the same size as my silkie eggs. I guess I expected bigger eggs? Well, my broody was sitting on six of these eggs along with other various mixed eggs. The others hatched just fine but the little eggs all got half way out of the eggs, had bloody spots and died. Was it too early to try and hatch a new layer's eggs? Could it be something genetic with my hen? Any ideas that you have would be appreciated. I have two other broodies that try to steal her eggs and would hate to repeat something that should't be. Here is a picture of the first two that made it. One is a game/silkie mix and the other is BO/RIR.

 

[Cajunsamoan]

Is this a silly question?

 

[NancyP]

I think it is to soon to say it's a genetic problem. Give her a few months and try again. Good luck.

 

[Cajunsamoan]

Thank you.

 

[KellyHM]

If a hen is laying pullet sized eggs it's hard for them to hatch b/c the chicks outgrow the egg too quickly. Wait until the eggs are a more normal size for her breed then try again.