Handling of Eggs
The quality of the chick will depend on the quality of the egg.
We cannot improve the quality of the egg after it has been laid, but, by proper handling of the eggs we can prevent deterioration before incubation,
Collection and handling
Most eggs are laid between 15h00 to 22h00. The most favourable time to collect these eggs would be as soon as possible after they have been laid. However, it must be noted that as the cuticle is the natural barrier to microbial invasion, it is advisable to at lease wait for the cuticle to dry.
Cracked eggs should be rejected as they could infect healthy eggs.
Dirty eggs can be cleaned with Ambicide (www.antecint.co.uk) by following the manufactures instructions.
Temperatures below freezing can damage the cell structure of the egg. The eggs should thus be collected before damage can occur.
Storage
Eggs may be stored in a cooler prior to incubation.
Cooling the eggs serve two purposes:
- For batching purposes.
Studies show that chicks hatched in a clutch stimulate each other to hatch, eat, drink and exercise and
- To allow for the formation of an air cell in the egg.
Storage temperature to be 5-13°C.The embryos will begin to develop abnormally if the temperature is too high. If, on the other hand, the temperature is too low the embryo will die.
Preparation
The eggs should be removed from the storage cooler and left to warm up gradually to room temperature. It is preferable to increase their temperature gradually.
Incubator preparation
- Prepare and adjust the incubator for 2 to 3 days prior to setting the eggs.
- Plug in the incubator and switch on. Let the incubator warm up for about 24 hours.
- The temperature can now be adjusted without affecting the eggs.
Incubator location
- Ideal room conditions are 22 - 24 degrees Celsius.
- Place the incubator away from drafts, out of direct sunlight and placed on an inside wall.
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