To incubate or wait, that is the question

[lucysducks11]

I received some Mallard eggs to hatch today, the date of laying was November 30th, I have been told different things as to when to start incubation. Do I start incubation today or do I wait 24 hours and then start incubation?? No instructions were sent on this and I don't want to unknowingly harm the eggs by waiting. Any advice is greatly appreciated!! Thanks

 

[Pyxis]

Were they shipped? If yes, you want to let them sit for 24 hours fat end up in an egg carton before setting them.

 

[lucysducks11]

Why are you supposed to wait the 24 hours before incubation? What is the benefit to the egg? I'm trying to become educated about everything I can

 

[Pyxis]

Why are you supposed to wait the 24 hours before incubation? What is the benefit to the egg? I'm trying to become educated about everything I can

It gives the eggs a chance to settle after being tossed and thrown around in shipping.

 

[lucysducks11]

I'm not sure these eggs moved very much at all. They were packed extremely well

 

[kyeschicks]

They are left 24 hours resting so that the air cell can regain its position if it's not ruptured. It is usually more convenient to check the air cells before you place them in the incubator to make sure the air cells are intact. It is vital for them to be intact.