As someone who has spent considerable time incubating and hatching chicks, I understand how disappointing it can be to discard eggs that don’t develop properly. However, this step is critical to prevent contamination of the other eggs in the incubator and to ensure the overall success of the hatching process. Egg candling, especially around day 17 as reflected in the OCR image references, is an invaluable method to monitor embryo development inside eggs such as Chukar partridge eggs or chicken eggs. By shining a bright light through the shell, you can identify which eggs are viable and which need to be removed. This not only prevents bacterial or fungal growth but also optimizes incubator conditions for the remaining healthy embryos. Temperature management plays a huge role in the success of hatching. It’s important to maintain a consistent and appropriate temperature—usually around 99.5°F (37.5°C) for chicken eggs—along with proper humidity levels. Variations in these conditions can lead to developmental issues or contamination risks. In my experience, marking eggs on the first day and regularly candling them, such as at days 7, 14, and 17, helps keep a detailed record of progress. This makes it easier to identify which eggs are struggling or have stopped developing. While it’s emotionally tough to remove eggs, it ultimately benefits the batch by preventing mold and bacteria spread. Additionally, using a reliable incubator and cleaning it thoroughly before and after each use helps minimize contamination. Good ventilation and regular turning of eggs are also crucial practices. By adopting careful egg handling and monitoring strategies, hatching enthusiasts can significantly improve chick survival rates and enjoy a healthy flock. If you're just starting out, don't be discouraged by early losses—each hatching season offers new lessons and better results.