Hatching fertile eggs successfully requires careful storage before incubation. Whether you're using a broody hen or an incubator, how long and under what conditions you store the eggs can significantly impact your hatch rate.
If eggs are stored incorrectly or for too long, the embryos can weaken, reducing the chances of a successful hatch. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
✔ The ideal time frame for storing fertile eggs
✔ Best storage temperature and humidity
✔ Proper egg positioning for storage
✔ How to turn eggs during storage
✔ How long is too long? When hatchability starts to decline
✔ Tips for maximizing hatch success
How Long Can You Store Fertile Eggs Before Incubation?
The best time to set fertile eggs in an incubator or under a broody hen is within 7 days of being laid. However, they can still remain viable for up to 14 days with proper storage. After this period, hatch rates decline significantly.
| Storage Time | Expected Hatch Rate |
|---|---|
| 0-7 days | 90% or higher (Best results) |
| 8-10 days | 80-85% (Slight decline) |
| 11-14 days | 50-70% (Lower success rate) |
| 15+ days | Below 50% (Significant embryo loss) |
Key Takeaways:
🔹 For optimal hatchability, incubate eggs within 7 days.
🔹 Do not store eggs beyond 10 days if you want a high success rate.
🔹 If eggs are stored for more than 14 days, expect a sharp decline in hatch rates.
Best Conditions for Storing Fertile Eggs Before Incubation
To keep embryos alive and ensure high hatch rates, eggs must be stored under controlled conditions.
1️⃣ Temperature: The Most Crucial Factor
Ideal temperature for storing fertile eggs: 55-65°F (13-18°C)
✅ Too hot? If storage temperatures exceed 75°F (24°C), early embryo development may begin, making incubation difficult.
✅ Too cold? Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can harm or kill the embryo, reducing hatchability.
Never store fertile eggs in a refrigerator! Most home refrigerators operate at 35-40°F (1-4°C)—too cold for viable storage.
2️⃣ Humidity: Preventing Dehydration & Bacteria Growth
Ideal humidity range: 75-80%
✅ Why is humidity important?
- Low humidity = Eggs dry out too quickly, leading to weak embryos.
- High humidity = Risk of bacterial contamination and shell sweating.
3️⃣ Proper Egg Positioning: Avoid Embryo Damage
How eggs are stored affects the embryo’s survival.
✔ Store eggs pointed-end down to keep the air cell stable.
✔ If storing for more than 7 days, turn the eggs at least once daily to prevent the yolk from sticking to the shell.
✔ Avoid sudden movements or excessive handling.
4️⃣ Egg Turning: Keeping the Embryo Alive
Turning eggs during storage prevents the embryo from sticking to the shell membrane, which can be fatal.
✔ If storing for 4-7 days: No need to turn.
✔ If storing for 8+ days: Turn eggs once or twice daily.
✔ How to turn? Gently tilt them side to side, or use an egg turner tray.
Pro Tip: Mark eggs with a pencil (X on one side, O on the other) to track turning!
How Long is Too Long? When Hatchability Drops
- Day 1-7: Hatch rates are nearly perfect with proper storage.
- Day 8-10: Viability starts to decline, but many will still hatch.
- Day 11-14: Embryo weakening increases, leading to more failed hatches.
- Day 15+: Most eggs will not hatch due to dehydration or embryo death.
✔ For best results, incubate eggs as soon as possible!
Tips to Maximize Hatch Rates for Stored Eggs
✔ Collect eggs frequently: Gather eggs 2-3 times daily to avoid temperature fluctuations.
✔ Handle eggs with clean hands: Oily or dirty hands can introduce bacteria.
✔ Do NOT wash eggs: Washing removes the natural bloom, increasing bacterial risk.
✔ Use a storage tray: Position eggs correctly (pointed-end down) to maintain air cell health.
✔ Keep away from direct sunlight: UV light can damage embryos.
✔ Monitor temperature & humidity daily: Use a thermometer and hygrometer for accuracy.
✔ Set eggs in the incubator as soon as possible!
Final Verdict: When Should You Incubate Stored Eggs?
If you want the best hatch rates, aim to incubate fertile eggs within 7 days of being laid. With proper storage at 55-65°F (13-18°C) and 75-80% humidity, you can extend hatchability up to 10-14 days, but the success rate will gradually decline.
If you follow the best practices outlined in this guide, you’ll maximize your hatch success and ensure strong, healthy chicks! 🐣