1st fertilized bantam eggs. What to expect?

[Jbently28]

So I'm not new to hatching but I am new to bantam eggs. One of my bantam Cochin went bloody about 4 days ago. I decided to go ahead and let her sit on 5 of her eggs. I didn't really expect much as my bantam eggs have never been fertilized. My roo is a RIR. I have another hen that is sitting on some of my EE and Buff Orpington eggs. I figured worse come to worse I would give her some of those eggs if need be. I candled the eggs today and low and behold 3 of the 5 eggs were fertilized and developing wonderful. I've read that bantam chicks often hatch a day early, but I was wondering what I should be looking for when candling. Should the air cells develop at the same rate and proportion as my other eggs? Will it take them the same amount of time to hatch once pipped? Just trying to be prepared so any info would be helpful. Thanks!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I generally only candle once if at all under a broody. Is she separated or did you Mark the eggs so you can tell if more eggs get added?

My bantam eggs always hatch on day 20. Always watch first time moms, not all know what they are doing. Contain them at hatch so the chicks can't wander off.

 

[BirdGirl2004]

From what I've read, it should be exactly the same, but they may hatch just a tad earlier!! From a couple hours to 2 days. I just love Bantams... you'll have a lovely mixture!

 

[Jbently28]

I generally only candle once if at all under a broody. Is she separated or did you Mark the eggs so you can tell if more eggs get added?

My bantam eggs always hatch on day 20. Always watch first time moms, not all know what they are doing. Contain them at hatch so the chicks can't wander off.

I always mark my eggs the day that they are added. I made the mistake of not doing it with my first bloody and ended up with a staggered clutch. Definitely not doing that again lol

 

[LDFchicksnducks]

A lot depends on your weather, temperatures, and how much she gets off or stays on the nest. Incubator bantams may hatch a day or so early, but broodies usually regulate them very well. My bantam cochins are wonderful mommas. But broody as all get out!

 

[Jbently28]

A lot depends on your weather, temperatures, and how much she gets off or stays on the nest. Incubator bantams may hatch a day or so early, but broodies usually regulate them very well. My bantam cochins are wonderful mommas. But broody as all get out!

I live in north Louisiana. It's been just below 100 degrees here for the past week. And it will continue to be that way until they hatch. And yes, my bantams are excellent browsers and mamas as well, second only to my turkey hen. She is the hardest to break of her broodiness. She will sit and once done only take about a 2 week break and then wants to sit again. If i don't allow her to sit then she will steal eggs so I usually just give in to her instincts. Shes sitting on some of my EE and buff orpinton eggs now. My bantam typically only comes off the nest once a day to eat. I have a small water bowl in with her to help not only with humidity but to keep her hydrated because of the heat.