Place a thermometer in the center to monitor the temperature, which should remain between 37.5°C and 38°C . Add a small bowl of water to create adequate humidity ( 50-55% for the first 18 days, then 65-70% for hatching ).
Choosing the right eggs: an often overlooked step
A good incubator isn’t everything. Egg quality is essential:
They must be fertilized, therefore from breeding with a rooster .
Recent , ideally less than 10 days old.
Neither washed nor cracked : their thin natural film is a barrier against infections.
Regularly sized to ensure even development.
Monitoring and maintenance of incubation
Here are some key actions to optimize your chances:
Turn the eggs 3 to 5 times a day to prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell.
Monitor temperature and humidity regularly.
Stop turning them 3 days before hatching.
Avoid opening the incubator during this last phase: this could cause the temperature or humidity level to drop suddenly .
A little extra tip: perform a candling (by placing a lamp behind the egg) around the 7th and 14th day to check the development of the embryo.
D-Day: The long-awaited hatching
Hatching can take time. Don’t worry if a chick takes several hours to emerge. Don’t help it break the shell! Every effort is essential for its health.
