So my 8 hens appeared to be tapering off on egg production with shorter cooler days.... Went from 6-7 per day to 2-3..... Cut surprise.... I found a new nesting spot outside of my coop/run. The free range most of the day... Anyway, 18 eggs were in this spot when I found it. Have hens only; eggs are no fertile... Temps have been freezing at night 50's most days. In a darker shaded area. I think they will be fine. Any other opinions? Probably the oldest were 4-5 days old when I collected them. Also, I keep my eggs unwashed and on the counter. Normally 12 - 18 in a basket ant any given time and I use first in first out... somewhat... How long do you feel comfortable having them un fridged... If I gat a nasty, I wash and fridge and use quickly.
I used to find nests all the time when my birds free ranged. I'd just float test them and use them. I very, very rarely had eggs be bad, especially in winter. I'd also leave mine on the counter, but as we heat with wood my kitchen is on the cooler side. I've had eggs out for a good month or so and no one's died yet.
Because unwashed eggs really don't need to be refrigerated...read up on it. advanced search>titles only>refrigerating eggs
