How old before I can use my hen's eggs to hatch?

[schmije]

I've never hatched eggs, but I'd like to try it. I raised two sets of chicks this year. The older ones began laying in July, and the younger ones should start in the next month. The roosters are already doing their 'duty', but how long should I let the hens lay before I take eggs to incubate? I know that the early eggs have small yolks, so I assumed that these would not be good to use. Is there a rule of thumb for this?

I will probably wait until February or March, because I don't want winter babies, but I am curious what you think.

 

[Cloverleaf Farm]

You'll hear different things on this subject (like every other subject known to man or beast) BUT I can tell you that I have attempted hatching from young pullets in the past with mixed results. I've gotten clear with no development eggs, I've gotten early quitters (blood rings at first candling) and I've gotten hatched healthy chicks...so yeah, I'm no help at all...

 

[schmije]

Quote:
What is considered a "young pullet"? Laying a month? six months?

 

[carrlr]

This more of a bump than anything. I'm sure it will be trial and error, but I wouldn't use anything from a bird that hadn't been laying for a couple months. I heard you should only use an egg once it reaches the normal size for that specific breed. Not sure how you would determnine that though.

 

[Cloverleaf Farm]

Quote:
What is considered a "young pullet"? Laying a month? six months?

1-3 months I'd say is iffy....lol I have eggs under a broody from some girls that have only been laying about a month right now though! After they've been laying about 4 months I'd say no problem.

 

[theturtlepond]

Well out of about 12 duck eggs that she first layed only 2 were fertile. So I think if they are a good size and many that you have tested are fertile then go ahead and try.