I have 7 roo's and 26 pullets. Most of my roos are very good at their "job" so their is a strong possibility that this little first egg is fertile. My frizzle chick was killed by a hawk. My daughter is devistated and we have some other eggs too and my bantam cochins are broodie so I was considering placing this egg under the bantam cochins and letting them raise some babies since they seem "bent" on being mommies. Any thoughts from you folks who are into the whole incubation/broodie thing? Caroline
First eggs are usually indeed fertile, but I've never had them actually develop myself. I've heard of it being done successfully though. After about 3 eggs, the rest should be fine, although I wouldn't often recommend it. Pullet eggs are pretty small and don't allow the chick much room to develop properly.
First small eggs can hatch but they are known to be smaller, weaker an less healthy than other chickens there whole life. Something I would avoid under normal situations, but.....
