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How to Do Eggs Candling for Poultry Farming

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How to Do Eggs Candling for Poultry Farming

Eggs candling is an essential technique used in poultry farming to check the development of embryos inside the eggs. It helps in identifying viable eggs, infertile eggs, and any potential issues during incubation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform eggs candling effectively.

What is Eggs Candling?

Eggs candling involves shining a bright light through an egg to observe its contents. This allows farmers to see the growth and health of the embryo.

Why is Eggs Candling Important?

Check Fertility

Purpose:

  • Determine fertility of the eggs.
  • Identify and remove infertile or non-developing eggs.

Monitor Embryo Development

Purpose:

  • Ensure the embryo is growing properly.
  • Detect any abnormalities or issues.

Improve Hatch Rate

Purpose:

  • Increase the chances of a successful hatch.
  • Remove eggs that won’t hatch, preventing contamination.

Equipment Needed for Eggs Candling

Candling Light

Description:

  • A bright light source specifically designed for candling.
  • Can be a handheld device or a stationary setup.

Dark Room

Description:

  • A darkened room enhances visibility.
  • Allows the light to penetrate the egg more effectively.

Egg Holder

Description:

  • A soft cloth or egg holder to keep the egg steady.
  • Prevents the egg from rolling or breaking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Eggs Candling

Step 1: Prepare the Equipment

Steps:

  1. Gather the candling light.
  2. Ensure you have a dark room or a space where you can dim the lights.
  3. Have a soft cloth or egg holder ready.

Step 2: Choose the Right Time

Steps:

  1. Candle the eggs around 7-10 days after incubation starts.
  2. Candle again around 14-18 days to check progress.

Step 3: Candle the Eggs

Steps:

  1. Turn off the lights in the room to make it dark.
  2. Hold the egg gently but firmly.
  3. Shine the light at the larger end of the egg, where the air cell is located.
  4. Rotate the egg slowly to see inside from different angles.

Step 4: Observe the Contents

Steps:

  1. Look for a network of blood vessels indicating a developing embryo.
  2. Check for a dark spot (the embryo) that grows over time.
  3. Identify the air cell, which should be present in a healthy egg.

Step 5: Assess the Eggs

Steps:

  1. Remove infertile eggs: Clear eggs with no visible development are likely infertile.
  2. Discard eggs with issues: Eggs with dead embryos or abnormal development should be removed.
  3. Mark healthy eggs: Use a pencil to mark the eggs that are developing normally.

Tips for Successful Eggs Candling

Be Gentle

Tip:

  • Handle the eggs carefully to avoid cracking or damaging them.

Use Proper Light

Tip:

  • Ensure the candling light is bright enough to penetrate the eggshell but not too hot.

Consistent Timing

Tip:

  • Candle at consistent intervals to monitor progress effectively.

Practice

Tip:

  • Practice candling on non-incubated eggs to get a feel for the process.

Common Observations During Candling

Viable Egg

Observation:

  • Visible blood vessels and a moving embryo.
  • Healthy air cell at the larger end.

Infertile Egg

Observation:

  • Clear appearance with no signs of development.
  • No blood vessels or embryo.

Dead Embryo

Observation:

  • Blood ring or dark spot with no movement.
  • Signs of abnormal development.

Eggs candling is a crucial practice in poultry farming that helps ensure a higher hatch rate and healthier chicks. By following these steps and tips, you can effectively monitor the development of your eggs and make necessary adjustments for successful hatching