How long can an egg be warm before storing for later incubation?

[bawkbawkz]

I have some broody birds on my farm, and sometimes I'm away for two or three days. I collect eggs as soon as I can, but my broody gals sit on the eggs from the moment they are laid. Does anyone know if they can be sat on for a day or two before being put in a chilled 55 degree basement for storage before incubation? Does anyone have experience with this or know anything about what this does to the hatch rate or malformations?

 

[Little Jerry Seinfeld]

I don't think once they start, that they can stop. it would kill them, as far as anything I've ever read. I've certainly never tried delaying with a hen or in incubation...

 

[Blue Eager]

I agree. The eggs should never be pulled once incubation has started, unless it is simply for a short cool down session. An hour at the most.