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Candling eggs during the incubation process is a technique used to check the development of the embryo inside the egg without disturbing it. Candling allows you to check the size of the air cell, the position of the embryo and the blood vessels development. In this article, we'll discuss how to candle eggs during the incubation process and what to look for.
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Equipment: To candle eggs, you will need a candle light or a strong flashlight and a dark room. A candle light is a special light that is used to illuminate the inside of an egg, and it is available for purchase online or at a farm supply store.
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Timing: The best time to candle eggs is between the 7th and 10th day of incubation. This is when the embryo has developed enough for candle, but it is not yet so advanced that candle will disturb it.
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Positioning the egg: Hold the egg up to the light source, with the large end of the egg facing the light. Rotate the egg slowly to check for any cracks or defects in the eggshell.
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Air cell: The air cell is the small pocket of air that forms between the inner and outer membranes of the egg. The size of the air cell can indicate the freshness of the egg and the viability of the embryo. A large air cell can indicate that the egg is old and not suitable for incubation.
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Embryo: The embryo will appear as a dark shape inside the egg. The position of the embryo will also indicate whether or not the egg is fertile. A fertilized egg will have the embryo located towards the center of the egg.
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Blood vessels: As the egg develops, small blood vessels will appear as red lines inside the egg. These blood vessels indicate that the egg is fertile and that the embryo is developing properly.
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Discard infertile eggs: If the egg appears to be infertile or has a large air cell, it should be removed from the incubator and discarded.
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Handling: Handle the eggs gently during candle to prevent any damage to the eggs or the embryos.
In conclusion, candle eggs during the incubation process is an important technique that allows you to check the development of the embryo inside the egg without disturbing it. Candling allows you to check the size of the air cell, the position of the embryo and the blood vessels development. You will need a candle light or a strong flashlight and a dark room. The best time to candle eggs is between the 7th and 10th day of incubation. Discard