A chicken egg begins its journey inside a hen’s body. The process starts in the ovary, where yolks (ova) develop. Once mature, a yolk is released into the oviduct, where it is coated with layers of egg white, membranes, and finally a shell made primarily of calcium carbonate. This entire process takes about 24 to 26 hours. Most hens lay one egg approximately every day, though factors like breed, age, and environment can affect laying frequency.
Chickens don’t need a rooster to lay eggs; however, those eggs will be unfertilized and won’t hatch. Fertilized eggs, on the other hand, can develop into chicks if incubated under the right conditions. Hens naturally incubate fertilized eggs by sitting on them for about 21 days, maintaining warmth and humidity with their bodies. This behaviour is called “brooding.” Not all hens are inclined to brood, especially those bred for egg production rather than for hatching.
Eggs come in various colours—white, brown, blue, even green—depending on the breed of the chicken. The colour has no impact on flavor or nutritional value; it’s merely a matter of genetics. Nutritionally, eggs are rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins like B12 and D, and minerals such as selenium and iron. The yolk, often considered the most nutritious part, contains choline, which supports brain health.
Understanding the biology and behaviour behind chicken eggs deepens our appreciation for this everyday marvel. From the farmyard to the kitchen, chicken eggs continue to be a vital, sustainable, and fascinating part of human life.