The Egg and I

Many theories have been suggested as to the reason for the turning over of the eggs in the nest, by the hen. One such reason is as follows:
 
  • A hen does not turn the eggs over just to stop the contents sticking to the shell. If a small window is cut in the upper side of an egg, a small white spot or eye can be seen in the yolk, this being where the new embryo is and is termed the "germinal spot".
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  • If the hole is sealed and the egg turned over and another inspection hole cut, the eye will still be seen to be uppermost. In fact the yolk has two cords called "chalaza" attached one each end of the eggshell, suspending the yolk in the white or albumin. The embryo being lighter than the rest of the yolk, always returns to the upright position to place it close to the hen..
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  • The hen does, in fact, move the eggs about, changing the outer and inner eggs of the nest so they eventually get equal time in the warmest part of the nest and so hatch together.©
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