When is the egg fertilized?

[kelly52862]

How long before the hen lays the egg is it fertilized? I am a first timer with an incubator but have had hens for years. I purchased a silver lace a couple weeks ago and added a few of her eggs to my mix. I was unsure if she was with a rooster prior to bringing her home.

Thanks.

 

[youngbiddy]

Well, you'll be able to candle and see for sure in about 5 days.

My information is that hens can store the rooster's contribution for about 3 weeks and produce fertile eggs during that time.

 

[3goodeggs]

the speckled hen has a wonderful post with pictures and everything.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=16008
I hope this helps!

 

[jenlynn4]

I believe the hen can stay fertile for up to 2 weeks after she has been removed from the roo...(I think that is what I read on here one time or another)