If an egg is "developing" will the egg float

[007Dawn]

like it would if the egg was bad? Anyone?

 

[Wynette]

I would think it would, because as it develops, the air cell grows, which would make it more buoyant (sp?); however, you sure don't want to drop a developing egg into water. That would not be good for it to submerge it.

 

[007Dawn]

Perfect! thank you! Someone else agreed with you so to the kitchen I go!

 

[ranchhand]

Quote:
I agree with Wynette, NOT a good idea.

 

[Uzuri]

If you weren't interested in hatching it and just wanted to avoid the ICK! factor of opening an egg with a sorta-chick in it, it wouldn't be a bad idea, though, no?

 

[ranchhand]

Quote:
Correct. If it floats, handle it carefully and toss it. If it just stands up off the bottom, use it right away. It it lies on it's side, it's fine.

The confusion stems from the usage of "developing" in the title, that implies hatching. A better choice would have been "fresh or old".

 

[007Dawn]

Quote:
I agree with Wynette, NOT a good idea.

None of my girls are broody so they were some eggs that were out in the back in an area we have never seen them lay before so we have no idea how old they are. They don't smell but if they are not sitting on them and turning them and are "older" eggs they won't hatch to start with right?

Or ...I know stupid....but they will still start to develop if not being sat on regularly right?

 

[Tuffoldhen]

Quote:
I agree with Wynette, NOT a good idea.

None of my girls are broody so they were some eggs that were out in the back in an area we have never seen them lay before so we have no idea how old they are. They don't smell but if they are not sitting on them and turning them and are "older" eggs they won't hatch to start with right?

Or ...I know stupid....but they will still start to develop if not being sat on regularly right?

Fertile eggs do not develop unless you have started the incubation process by either using a Broody hen or an incubator. You have to have the correct temp and humidity in either case for development.