Day 8 today - should I candle the eggs?

[StripeyKnickersSpottySocks]

And how do I get grumpy, broody chicken off the eggs to do it?

Can I do it with an ordinary torch?

Think I really mean - do I have to? Is there any harm in not doing it?

Yes! How exciting!
I don't get the hen off, I wait for her to go and get a drink then dive in.
Did you see my thread on how to do it?

No harm in not checking if you don't want to
just take away any eggs that hen kicks out of nest.

Just found and read your candling advice Ingles.

Think I'll give it a miss if it does no harm by not doing it.

So far none have been pushed out so will wait and see.

Not another one expecting chicks. I'm so . Last years new hens are not broody in the slightest. So I've ordered an incy.

Agree with ingles, if the hen gets off and your candler is handy then look, otherwise don't bother. A torch would have to be very, very bright to work and it's easier if the room/henhouse is darkish.

This link is helpful if you're not sure what you're looking at. Good and bad eggs!

My broody would never get off her eggs unless I took her off. I may try candling tomorrow eve....depends how brave I feel!