Is this a fertilized egg?

[Urban Waddler]

I’ve hatched fertilized eggs in an incubator, but never had a drake around until now. I know you’re supposed to look for a bullseye of some kind to tell if an egg is fertile, so I attached this picture wondering if that’s exactly what I’m seeing. My drake is only 3 months old and hardly developing his drake feather, but I’ve definitely seen him mating or trying to mate with my one year old pekin. It hasn’t gotten to be too much at this point, but I’m watching closely, to make sure he doesn’t overdo it.

My question is first, is this fertile? And second, if I’m ok with more ducks, should I let her sit the eggs, or should I incubate? I haven’t decided either way, but want some insight if anyone could share some insight.

Thanks!

 

[cheezenkwackers]

Yes, your eggs look fertile to me. You did not mention what kind of ducks you have but some have been bred to not go broody or sit on their eggs. That is why many have to use an incubator. Also, if you are eating the eggs, she won’t stop laying if you hatch using an incubator. Fertile eggs taste exactly same as infertile btw.

 

[Urban Waddler]

Yes, your eggs look fertile to me. You did not mention what kind of ducks you have but some have been bred to not go broody or sit on their eggs. That is why many have to use an incubator. Also, if you are eating the eggs, she won’t stop laying if you hatch using an incubator. Fertile eggs taste exactly same as infertile btw.

Thanks for your response! She is a Pekin. She has always been ritualistic with laying her eggs in her nest, hiding them when she leaves, but the last couple of months, she has started to sit on her egg more, less inclined to get up and go to the pond. But if she hears food or me doing anything outside, or as soon as I take the egg, she’ll go back to her daily activities.

With winter coming, I also don’t think it’s the best time for ducklings, as I’ve only had ducklings spring and summer. But still thinking. She definitely seems to want to sit her nest these days, but like I said, can be easily persuaded to leave with some coaxing. Thanks!

 

[Miss Lydia]

And depends on where your located too. Here we have at least 2-3 months of nice weather before cold sets in. Plenty of time for ducklings to hatch and get acclimated. Plus being with mama duck helps get them acclimated a lot better.