Sally, I've had broodies crush eggs in 'lockdown' without tearing the outer membrane many, many times over the years (I'm sure my grandmother dealt with it at some point too) and had every one of them hatch. Remember, they are more resilient than we think!https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/704328/diary-notes-air-cell-detatched-shipped-eggs/13910
ok all you Hatchers on the thread...... have a look at what I have in the bator, an shelless embryo!
If Humpty makes it I will be in total amazement, but he is still alive on day 19!
I figured I should share, just in case the little dude makes it all the way!