Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My finch laid an egg. How do I check for fertility and candle it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male

My finch egg has a dark spot(maybe at the larger end) of the egg.only one egg has been laid.And the female has covered it totally with cotton.Should i take it out with hands for candelling process? Is it a sign of fertile egg?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on December 9th, 2017

If she just laid it, you will not be able to determine fertility. Wait 5 days after she starts incubation. If you don't see a network or blood vessels, it is likely infertile. Wash your hands prior to touching the egg. Handle it only if you can't get a light source behind it.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on December 9th, 2017

    Hens will typically lay one egg every 24 hours. She may not begin incubation until 3 or more eggs are laid. You can candle the eggs after 5 days of incubation. Infertile eggs will appear clear while fertile eggs will have small red vessels showing. The parents will take care of the eggs and chicks, which will hatch after about 12-16 days of incubation. They will not all hatch at the same time. There will be about 24 hours between each hatching.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my parrot's skin bare under its wings, but feathers are good?
Does your senegal parrot have bare skin under its wings? A Licensed Vet Tech offers tips on monitoring, hygiene, diet, and when to see your vet for healthy feathers.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
What are the signs to tell if my pet bird is male or female?
Wondering about your bird's gender? Dr. Elizabeth, a certified veterinarian, explains how to identify male or female birds using visual differences or genetic tests. Provide a photo, age, and species for accurate guidance.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Do pet birds need vaccinations or regular vet shots for their health?
Curious about bird shots? A Petco vet explains when pet birds get vaccinated, the importance of annual wellness exams, and how to find an expert avian veterinarian.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my cockatiel's wing bleeding after a feather trim?
Cockatiel's bloody wings after pet store visit? A certified vet explains if trimmed feathers or a cut blood feather caused this. Find expert bird care advice here.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My parrot won't stop bouncing and screaming. What's wrong with her?
Is your parrot Susie excessively jumping and screaming with callouses? A trusted veterinarian advises seeking professional help for these sudden behavior changes. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
My green cheek conure's voice is raspy and sneezy. Should I worry?
Is your green cheek conure's voice raspy or sneezy? A certified vet explains common causes like respiratory infections and advises on your bird's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored