How long can an incubating egg be cool and still hatch?

[smott]

I have a broody hen sitting on 6 eggs. First time experience for me, and I wasn't aware of what she was doing at first, so I'm not sure exactly what day we are on. Best guess, around day 17-18. This morning I found one of her marked eggs in another nest. Not sure how long it had been out from under her, but it was cool to the touch. I panicked and I stuck it back under her, but I don't know if that was what I should have done or not? I read not to candle or move them after day 18, so I didn't want to disturb her too much. Should I just wait and see if it hatches or not or try to candle it after it warms back up? What are the chances of it surviving a few hours? Temp here is in 50's this morning.

 

[the3quail]

if its fertile, maybe incubate it.

 

[ChocolateMouse]

A few hours won't necessarily kill an egg. I'd do exactly what you did - tuck it back under mom and hope for the best. Not moving the eggs is about lockdown for incubators, not broody hens.

 

[smott]

@the3quail
They were all growing great and showing movement last time I candled, which was several days ago. Didn't candle it today because I just panicked and wanted to get it back warm ASAP. I don't have incubator, so I just stuck it back under mom.