How long between laying and incubating

[TimG]

Hi,

I'm sure this question has been asked before, but I can't seem to find the answer with the search engine. My apologies for a repeat question.

How long is it safe to wait between the time an egg is laid and before incubation is started?

Thanks,
Tim

 

[KellyHM]

Fertility decreases greatly after a week and continues to go downhill from there.

 

[sourland]

If kept at a moderate temperature, viability should remain good for two to as much as three weeks. Just think how long it takes a hen to lay an entire clutch. Eggs that are to be shipped for hatching should not be held for much longer than one week.

 

[rebelcowboysnb]

Hatch rates drop slowly for the first 13 days. After 14 days it drops very fast.

To get the highest hatch rates most dont collect for more than 7 days.

 

[TimG]

Thanks, as someone surmised, shipped eggs are involved.

Sounds like collect for 7 days and ship immediately, meaning into the incubator in 9-10 days at he most, should be reasonably safe.