In this blog, you will learn what candling is, why it matters, when to do it, and what signs to watch for. All information is written in simple language so anyone can follow along. If you are working with chicken eggs, quail eggs, or other poultry, this guide will help you get better and more safe results. We will also use important keywords like candling hen eggs, chicken candling eggs, and egg candle naturally throughout the content.
What Is Candling Hen Eggs?
Candling hen eggs is a method where you shine a bright light through the egg. The light helps you see the inside of the shell. Long ago, people used a candle, which is where the name comes from. Today, people use an egg candle or a strong LED torch.
The goal of candling is to check if the egg is fertile and if the embryo is growing well. You can also check for cracks, blood rings, or signs of a dead embryo. This process keeps your hatch clean and helps prevent bad eggs from staying in the incubator too long.
Why Candling Is Important
Candling hen eggs offers many benefits. Some of the main reasons include:
- You can remove infertile eggs early
- You can track embryo growth
- You can reduce the risk of rotten eggs exploding
- You can prevent bacteria from spreading
- You can protect healthy chicks inside the incubator
When you use an egg candle correctly, you can quickly understand which eggs to keep and which to discard. This helps increase your hatch success.
When Should You Candle Eggs?
Timing is very important in chicken candling eggs. Candle too early, and you may not see anything. Candle too often, and you may disturb the eggs. The best days to candle are:
- Day 7 – You should see veins and embryo movement
- Day 14 – Growth should be larger and clearer
- Day 18 – Final check before lockdown
After Day 18, you should not candle because the egg is preparing for hatching. Keep the eggs inside the incubator without moving them.
How to Candle Eggs Step by Step
Follow these easy steps to candle hen eggs safely:
Step 1: Prepare Your Tools
Get your egg candle or bright LED light. Make sure the room is dark so you can see inside the egg clearly.
Step 2: Wash Your Hands
Clean hands prevent germs from spreading to the eggs.
Step 3: Hold the Egg Gently
Keep the pointed end down. Place the large end near the egg candle light.
Step 4: Look for Key Signs
When candling hen eggs, check for these:
- Veins – Shows life
- Dark spot (embryo) – Should move slightly
- Air cell – Should be at the large end
- Clear egg – Means not fertile
- Blood ring – Means embryo stopped growing
Step 5: Return the Egg Quickly
Do not keep the egg outside the incubator for long. Heat loss can harm the embryo.
Tips for Better Candling Results
- Always use a strong light
- Candle in a dark room
- Avoid shaking the eggs
- Hold the egg steady and gentle
- Keep records of each candling
- Do not candle daily
The more you practice, the better you get at reading the eggs.
Final Thoughts
Candling hen eggs is simple, helpful, and important for anyone who wants good hatch rates. Whether you are a beginner or someone improving your skills, using an egg candle will give you a clear view inside each egg. By checking growth and removing bad eggs early, you can protect your healthy chicks and get better results every hatch season.
FAQs
1. What tool do I need for candling hen eggs?
You need a strong light source like an egg candle or a bright LED torch.
2. Can I candle brown eggs?
Yes. Brown eggs are harder to see through, but a strong light still works.
3. How long should candling take?
Only a few seconds per egg. Do not leave eggs out of the incubator for too long.