COMPARING SHIPMENTS

Comparing Apples to Oranges: Shipped Egg Variables


When comparing different shipments of shipped hatching eggs, it is important to understand that each shipment goes through its own journey, influenced by various factors. These factors can lead to differences in the eggs' condition, requiring unique incubation approaches.   

1. Understanding Unique Journeys:
Each shipment of hatching eggs has its own unique journey, which can impact the eggs' condition and viability. Factors such as transportation duration, handling procedures, and environmental conditions during transit may differ between shipments. It is crucial to recognize that these variations can affect the eggs' quality and subsequent incubation requirements.

2. Evaluation of Air Cells:
One clue to assess the condition of shipped hatching eggs is to examine the air cells. The air cell is the empty space at the blunt end of the egg. When eggs are shipped, the air cells may become detached or saddled due to movement and vibrations during transportation. Detached or saddled air cells can indicate potential damage or reduced viability of the eggs.

- Detached Air Cells: If the air cells are completely detached and move freely within the egg, it suggests that the eggs experienced excessive shaking or rough handling during transit. Incubation of eggs with detached air cells may require adjustments in humidity levels and positioning during incubation. See Vlogs tab for more information on handling this situation. 

- Saddled Air Cells: When the air cells are partially detached and appear to be slanting to one side, it indicates a milder form of damage during transportation. Eggs with saddled air cells may still be viable but could require careful positioning during incubation to ensure proper development. Visit the Vlogs for more information. 


While intact air cells in shipped hatching eggs may initially seem like a positive sign, it is essential to understand that their presence alone does not guarantee a successful shipment. Incubation and fertility involve a complex interplay of multiple cells within the egg, and the alignment of these cells is crucial for successful development. Therefore, assessing the condition of the air cells is just one aspect of evaluating the potential success of a shipment, and additional considerations are necessary for a comprehensive assessment.


3. Candling:
Candling is a technique used to assess the internal condition of eggs by shining a bright light source through them. Upon receiving a shipment of hatching eggs, customers can perform candling to gather additional clues about the eggs' viability. Candling allows for the identification of potential issues such as cracks, blood rings, or early signs of embryo development. By candling the eggs, customers can make informed decisions about which eggs to incubate and which may require further evaluation or discard. 

4. Adjusting Incubation Conditions:
Due to the unique nature of each shipment, it is essential to adapt incubation conditions based on the evaluation of the eggs' condition. Eggs with detached or saddled air cells may require specific adjustments in humidity levels, positioning, or turning protocols during incubation. 


Despite meticulous efforts and diligent care, there are instances where the desired outcome may not be achieved. This is simply the nature of the product and the inherent unpredictability of certain processes. Even with the best intentions and careful handling, there are various factors beyond any particular farms control which can influence the success of a shipment. However, it is important to remember that setbacks are not indicative of failure but rather opportunities for growth and improvement. In such situations, it is advisable to embrace the inherent resilience of the process, learn from the experience, and consider trying again with renewed knowledge and determination.


When comparing different shipments of shipped hatching eggs, it is crucial to understand that each shipment has its own journey and unique factors that can impact the eggs' quality and viability. By evaluating the air cells,  performing candling, and adjusting incubation practices/conditions accordingly, customers can make informed decisions about the eggs' potential for successful hatching. Recognizing and respecting the differences between shipped eggs and other types of eggs is essential for achieving the best possible hatching results. 

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