Found some eggs…

[mg37]

Our chickens have been climbing over our gate and laying eggs in the weeds a few feet from their pen… I would just toss them out but we found a ton, is there any way to tell if they are good or not?

 

[Backyardhomestead921]

You get a cup or bowl that’s deep enough for an egg to sink or float, so atleast 5 inches . Then drop the egg in the water, if it floats it’s bad, and it it stays below the water / sinks it’s good. But if the egg stands up but is underwater , means that’s it’s good, but getting close to expiring date.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Technically the float vs sink test only shows how big the air pocket is. It won't tell you if there is bacteria that has gotten in.

Better safe than sorry. Toss em out and lock up the birds for a while to remind them where eggs are to be laid.

 

[neo71665]

I'd toss 'em. No need to chance it.

 

[NorthwoodsChick]

Welcome to BYC.
Do you have a rooster and are the eggs fertile? If no rooster then I agree with 21 Hens in charge. Toss them rather than eat them.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Welcome to BYC.
Do you have a rooster and are the eggs fertile? If no rooster then I agree with 21 Hens in charge. Toss them rather than eat them.

If there IS a rooster that's even more reason not to eat this batch. Thinking a partially developed chick would be quite a shock in the morning omelet pan.

 

[NorthwoodsChick]

If there IS a rooster that's even more reason not to eat this batch. Thinking a partially developed chick would be quite a shock in the morning omelet pan.

yes, indeed. OP could candle the eggs. Doubtful any would be viable but it would be s nice academic exercise to attempt incubation if the eggs are not too far gone.