Ferilized egg question!

[Jenifer72]

I bought 3 RIR laying hens yesterday...today they layed 2 eggs so far. One of the eggs was cracked so I opened it and it was fertilized...my question is...How long after being with a rooster will they lay fertilized eggs???? So this was from it's former home.... Cuz my rooster is only 5 weeks so I know it wasnt him! any help?

 

[Illia]

Their eggs will be fertilized for up to 3 weeks. If you're worried about eating them though - They'll be just fine to eat.

 

[LarryPQ]

Depends on the chicken and the roo, but usually between 2 and 4 weeks. "Favorite" hens might lay fertilized eggs longer.

 

[Jenifer72]

Quote:
Thanks for the help!! I was wondering about keeping them for incubating too. I wanted to know about how long I would have.

 

[Jenifer72]

Quote:
Thanks!

 

[mizziriz]

How can you tell an egg is fertilized by cracking it open? I am a newbie

 

[LarryPQ]

fertilized eggs will have a bulls-eye rather than a dot.

looking for pics....

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=16008