Abstract: This invention is directed to a surgical isolator and cradle, suitable for the use in a surgical method involving the removal of prematura eggs from birds in order to generate germ-free eggs and birds. In particular, the surgical isolator is used in the generation of birds of specified germ-free status.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for the incubation and hatching of premature eggs, in particular, surgically-derived premature eggs removed from a bird prior to transfer of the premature egg to the cloaca of a bird.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for the incubation and hatching of premature eggs, in particular, surgically-derived premature eggs removed from a bird prior to transfer of the premature egg to the cloaca of a bird.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved method of rearing a bird of specified germ-free status. Specifically, the present invention is directed to a method for increasing the hatchability and viability of surgically derived eggs of germ-free status when obtained from a parent bird. The method comprises housing a bird as a parent bird, determining the position of a premature egg in the reproductive tract and stage of development of the premature egg in terms of shell formation and calcification, surgically removing an egg in its shell from the parent bird prior to transfer of the egg to the cloaca in the parent bird, incubating the egg and hatching the egg to produce a laying bird. The invention also relates to the production of avian eggs of specified germ-free status and uses thereof.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a surgical isolator and cradle, suitable for the use in a surgical method involving the removal of prematura eggs from birds m order to generate germ-free eggs and birds. In particular, the surgical isolator is used in the generation of birds of specified germ-free status.

Abstract: A method of rearing a bird of germ-free status comprises housing a bird as a parent bird, surgically removing an egg in its shell from the parent bird prior to transfer of the egg to the cloaca in the parent bird, incubating the egg still in its shell and hatching the egg to produce a laying bird. The production of avian eggs of germ-free status is also provided.