Poultry Judging Practice Test

What happens to the egg after a body check occurs?

1. The egg is not viable

2. The egg is laid immediately

3. The egg is repaired internally

4. The hen will have another egg produced

The correct answer is: The egg is repaired internally

When a body check occurs, it refers to a situation where the hen experiences a disruption in the laying process, often due to stress or injury, which can lead to an imperfection in the egg development. The correct answer highlights that the egg undergoes a process of internal repair. In this context, the hen's reproductive system has the ability to manage certain setbacks in egg development. If an egg experiences a body check, the hen can often compensate by repairing issues that would otherwise render the egg non-viable. These repairs can include adjustments in the shell formation, membrane integrity, or the yolk’s quality. This adaptive mechanism helps to ensure that the egg remains viable even after such disruptions. This understanding of internal repair is crucial in poultry management and breeding practices, as it can significantly impact the overall productivity and health of the flock. Recognizing that hens can repair eggs after a body check informs better handling and management to minimize stressors in their environment.