From Proctor and Lynch “Manual of Ornithology”
The female’s reproductive system is made up an ovary where (undeveloped eggs are stored) and an oviduct - which is a tubular organ through the egg develops as it passes through her body.
The egg (also called an ovum) passes from the ovary into the infundibulum (the funnel shaped upper portion of the oviduct) where it will be fertilized.
From here the egg passes into the magnum region where it receives its albumen or egg white. The albumen is important as it holds most of the eggs water. it also acts as a shock absorber and insulator for the developing embryo.
Next the egg passes into the isthmus region. Here it receives the membranes that will line the inside of the shell. These membranes control the passage of gases (such as oxygen and carbon dioxide) through the egg and provide a place for the embryo to store waste products.
The final stage in the development of the egg happens in the uterus region. Here the hard calcium rich shell is laid down. From here the egg is held for a short time until it’s ready to be laid.
From the Norfolk site: pretty interesting
