How long can an egg be cold and still safe?

[HotHenHouse]

I just purchased a dozen Silky Bantam eggs they are coming 3 day delivery I am having them held at the post office but concerned that they will get cold. Does anyone know the success rate on shipping fertile eggs in extreme cold weather?

 

[dsqard]

First off:

Second, eggs can actually be refrigerated and still hatch. Of course hatch rate goes down but as long as they don't get frozen they should be OK.

 

[donrae]

I don't have experience with shipped eggs but I know many folks here have broody hens that are successfully hatching. When a hen broods her own, she lays an egg a day until she sets, meaning the first egg layed sits out at whatever temp for a week or so, until she broods them. I think they have to be really cold for a long time--as stated, they can hatch after being in the fridge--to not make it. I think the post office handling will affect hatch rate more than temps.
Good luck with your silkie eggs!

 

[HotHenHouse]

good to know thanks all