Help me determine fertility???

[dixiechick]

Ok, I just got THE most wonderful pullets and one has laid 3 eggs. My question is: Can I determine if it is fertile by looking at the shell....or do I need to start incubation, then candle them?

How many days can I safely gather eggs before incubation?

Any info you can offer would greatly be appreciated!

 

[KellyHM]

You can crack one open to see if it's fertile. Otherwise you can incubate them and candle after 4-5 days. Most people say not to hold eggs for more than a week before putting them in the bator.

 

[dixiechick]

I know to look for a germ spot....but what exactly does that look like?

 

[KellyHM]

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