Fertility

[Swamp Roo]

I'm a long way away from selectively breeding, but I was curious when you could be sure of paternal parentage after separating out a breeding group? How long can hens store sperm? I realize there may be some variance in breeds and individuals, but what would be a safe guideline? Thanks

Swamp

 

[MissPrissy]

A hen can produce fertile eggs for as long as nearly 3 weeks after a mating.

If you are sorting out breeding pens you need to make sure the hens are cleaned out before you can safely assume they are from the rooster of your breeding choice.

 

[Barnyard]

I believe it is 3 weeks.

 

[hinkjc]

I wait a full month to ensure the hen is fertile from the new rooster.

Jody

 

[Swamp Roo]

Thanks, I knew they could store for a while, but could not remember how long. Like I said, I'm not there yet, but it's good to know that it is a reasonable amount of time.

Swamp