What is the best way to steal eggs from a sitting hen?

[gardenknitter]

I have a Guinea sitting on about 30 eggs. They are getting close to hatch and I am ready to bring some in for the bator. How do you go abut stealing them? At night? Is it best to take them all or leave her a few? She is in a relatively safe place, but is outdoors and I don't think the keets would have the best survival rates. Thanks for any advice!!

 

[cerridwenn]

at night, wearing gloves, give her back some plastic easter eggs if you feel it's necessary. at least, that is what i've done with chickens - we never raised guineas but i don't think it would be a whole lot different.

 

[1lpoock]

I took 10 eggs from my wood duck hen one week before hatch. I did it at night and just reached down in the nest box and started taking them. She didn't really try to bite, just hit me with her wings a little. I was done in a minute and a few minutes later she came out because she realized she didn't have anything to sit on.

 

[gardenknitter]

Thanks!