i have just noticed today that one of my clutches of eggs appear to be pecked by the hen they arent large pecks but it appears to have slightly cracked the shells, are these eggs spoiled now? i think they are fertile also so im worried

Its more than likely puncture holes from sharp toenails. Can be the hen or the cock, but I believe its usually due to the cock birds as from what i've seen, they are nothing but a PEST when in the nest box until there are actually chicks to raise. They walk all over the eggs AND the hen. I've even had a few who play soccer with the eggs.

 

Use nail polish to seal the holes. Works a charm. Only use enough to seal the hole, no more.

Its more than likely puncture holes from sharp toenails. Can be the hen or the cock, but I believe its usually due to the cock birds as from what i've seen, they are nothing but a PEST when in the nest box until there are actually chicks to raise. They walk all over the eggs AND the hen. I've even had a few who play soccer with the eggs.

 

Use nail polish to seal the holes. Works a charm. Only use enough to seal the hole, no more.

 

thanks dean, i will do that straight away

sealing holes is only successful if done immediately.