Poultry Judging Practice Test

Why is proper egg storage essential in hatcheries?

1. It prevents egg contamination

2. It enhances feather development

3. It reduces feed consumption

4. It increases egg size

The correct answer is: It prevents egg contamination

Proper egg storage is essential in hatcheries primarily because it prevents egg contamination. When eggs are stored properly, they are kept in conditions that minimize risks such as exposure to bacteria, molds, and other harmful pathogens that can compromise the health of the embryo and ultimately affect hatchability. Maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels is crucial to protect the eggs’ integrity and viability. Other choices, while related to poultry production, do not directly pertain to the critical aspects of egg storage in hatcheries. Enhancing feather development is more relevant to post-hatching growth rather than the egg's storage conditions. Similarly, reducing feed consumption and increasing egg size are not directly influenced by how eggs are stored in hatcheries, focusing instead on other factors such as nutrition and genetics post-hatch. The primary focus during egg storage is safeguarding against contamination to ensure a successful hatch.