Changes in Shell Conductance, Pores, and Physical Dimensions of Egg and Shell During the First Breeding Cycle of Turkey Hens ,

Abstract

Measurements of changes in eggs, shells, and the functionality of the shell in conducting vital gases to the chorioallantois in embryos were made three times during the first laying cycle of the same turkey breeder hens. Normal increases in egg size were accompanied by concomitant increases in all physical dimensions of eggs and shells measured. Conductance of the egg shells, however, would allow smaller fractional water losses in late cycle eggs than in early cycle eggs, indicating different environmental incubation conditions may be needed with turkey eggs produced by hens in different stages of the reproductive cycle.