Think too soon

[Danny C.]

I have regular bobwhites and only had 4 for incubator before a week trip. On 9th day now for them and have 3 dozen in refrigerator.
Did the first ones for sentimental reasons but now really laying. At 23 days, and depending on how long they lay, should I candle these at some point and see if fertile since heard some at first most are not.
Don’t want to wait too long with a 56 eggs incubator. 16 hens/6 roosters.
Please advise. Thanks!

 

[DK newbie]

I guess at day 9 you should be able to see development if you candle fertile eggs, so go ahead and give it a try.
You probably shouldn't store your hatching eggs in the refrigerator. Some will survive, but it's likely to affect your hatch rate. Slightly below room temp is better.

 

[Danny C.]

Thanks. The eggs in fridge are for eating and only start setting back eggs moving forward for incubation.
Realized that over next week can gather 30-50 eggs to hatch instead of waiting for these initial 4 to term out. Maximize my herd is my plan, specially since have a feed and seed store wanting to buy chicks.