If you're considering taking the leap into incubating shipped eggs, this guide covers everything you need to know, from finding a trustworthy source to increasing hatch rates once they arrive.

Why Order Hatching Eggs Online?

The primary reason people order hatching eggs instead of chicks is access. Many specialty or heritage breeds aren't available at your local farm store or hatchery, especially in smaller quantities. Online orders allow you to:

• Choose rare or regionally adapted breeds.

• Maintain biosecurity by avoiding exposure to live birds.

• Time your hatch to your own schedule.

• Enjoy the rewarding experience of watching the process from egg to chick.

It’s also a cost-effective option for those already equipped with an incubator, especially if you're aiming to hatch multiple birds over time.

Choosing a Reliable Seller

Not all hatching egg sellers are created equal. Reputation, breed quality, and shipping practices matter immensely. Look for:

Breeder Reputation:

Check for reviews, active social media presence, or references on poultry forums. A reputable breeder will share clear photos of parent stock and list fertility rates honestly.

Breeding Standards:

Some sellers focus on show-quality birds, others on utility traits like egg production or temperament. Be clear on your goals when selecting a breeder.

Shipping Experience:

Fertile eggs are fragile, and mishandling in transit can ruin hatch rates. Look for sellers who use foam shippers or secure padding, clearly mark boxes as “fragile,” and ship early in the week to avoid weekend delays.

What to Expect When Your Eggs Arrive

You may be tempted to candle the eggs right away, but shipped eggs often need time to settle. Let them rest upright, pointed end down, for 12 to 24 hours before placing them in the incubator. This helps the air cell stabilize, especially if the box has been jostled.

Expect some losses.

Even under perfect conditions, hatch rates for shipped eggs can vary widely—from 25% to 75%—depending on handling, breed, and season. Don’t get discouraged if not every egg hatches.

How to Improve Hatch Rates

You can’t control how the postal system handles your eggs, but you can control what happens once they reach your door.

Let Them Settle:

Never rush shipped eggs into the incubator. Give them time to rest and warm to room temperature.

Use a Reliable Incubator:

Stable temperature and humidity are vital. Invest in a calibrated thermometer and hygrometer. Automatic turners help keep embryo development consistent.

Avoid Overhandling:

Candling during incubation is fun, but limit how often you handle the eggs. Too much movement can damage delicate structures, especially in eggs already stressed by shipping.

Keep Good Records:

Note breed, seller, hatch rate, and any issues. This will help you decide whether to buy from the same source again.

Risks and Rewards

Ordering hatching eggs online is not without risks. Breakage, infertility, and failed hatches can be frustrating. Still, the rewards are significant. You get to:

• Choose unique breeds.

• Watch the miracle of development.

• Raise birds from their very beginning.

With patience, research, and realistic expectations, online hatching eggs can be a joyful and worthwhile experience for chicken keepers at any level.