Why is turning of eggs 3 days before the expected date of hatching unnecessary?
When it comes to hatching eggs, proper incubation and care are crucial for successful outcomes. One common practice in the hatching process is egg turning, which involves rotating the eggs regularly to prevent the yolks from sticking to the shells. However, there is a question that has been debated among chicken keepers and breeders: Why is turning of eggs 3 days before the expected date of hatching unnecessary?
What is the purpose of egg turning?
Egg turning is a critical step in the incubation process that serves several purposes. During the first 18 days of incubation, eggs need to be turned to prevent the yolks from sticking to the shells. This is because the yolks are still in the liquid state and can easily attach themselves to the shell. Turning the eggs ensures that the yolks stay in the center of the egg, allowing the embryos to develop evenly.
Why stop turning 3 days before hatching?
The main reason for stopping egg turning 3 days before hatching is that the embryos have already developed to a stage where they no longer need to be turned. By day 18 of incubation, the embryos have absorbed most of the yolk sac, and their bodies have become self-sufficient. At this stage, they no longer need to be turned to prevent yolks from sticking to the shells.
What happens if eggs are not turned?
If eggs are not turned during the first 18 days of incubation, the yolks can stick to the shells, leading to a condition called "yolk sticking." Yolk sticking can cause embryos to die or become weak, which can result in low hatch rates.
How often should eggs be turned?
Eggs should be turned regularly during the first 18 days of incubation. The frequency of turning can vary depending on the incubator or breeder. In a commercial incubator, eggs are typically turned once every hour. For home incubators, eggs can be turned 3-4 times a day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, turning of eggs 3 days before the expected date of hatching is unnecessary because the embryos have already developed to a stage where they no longer need to be turned. Stopping egg turning 3 days before hatching ensures that the embryos have enough time to prepare for hatching, increasing the chances of successful hatches.