Chickens can be strange little creatures when it comes to laying eggs. All kinds of odd anomalies exist in the realm of abnormal chicken eggs. Most of them are sort of gross to be perfectly honest. The exception to the “gross” rule are the cute little eggs, lovingly referred to as “fart” or “wind” eggs. Wind eggs are without yolks are also called “dwarf” eggs. Such an egg is most often a pullet’s first effort, produced before her laying mechanism is fully ready. In a mature hen, a wind egg is unlikely, but can occur if a bit of reproductive tissue breaks away, stimulating the egg producing glands to treat it like a yolk and wrap it in albumen, membranes and a shell as it travels through the egg tube. This is what happened in the Icelandic coop today. When closing up for the night, I found this in the nest box.
Here is the little egg, in the center between a normal Icelandic egg and Michael’s fish oil pill!
Beth Stewart says
What a cute term….Wind Eggs! I’ve had ducks n chickens for 4 years now…and this is the first year I have ever gotten any. So far 5 from the Call Ducks and 2 from the banty Faverelles. One egg was so tiny it was only a 1/4 inch across. I’m glad I found your site. I love reading your stories. Hope you have many good days in your future my dear. I know the feeling!!!
nursemary says
How very kind Beth. I am glad you found my blog. It is more fun to write if there’s someone reading! Do come back.
Tonya Taber says
I am jealous! I have never gotten one. It is so cute!
nursemary says
I can send you one for $15.00 shipping!
The Other Mary says
It always amazes me when I find one of these in a nest. I’m happy because I know one of the young pullets is getting ready to join the ranks of the layers! The one you found is smaller than any I’ve had here. Love your blog!