#Bird incubator how to

This is the way eggs naturally settle when placed on their sides. If you do not have an automatic egg turner, the eggs are set in the incubator horizontally with the large end slightly elevated. Just be sure to remove them from the turner and lay them on the floor of the incubator (most come with a wire floor) three days before hatch. If you are using an automatic egg turner, then that will take care of the turning for you. Keep the incubator closed during hatching to maintain proper temperature and humidity. The embryos are moving into hatching position and need no turning. Do not turn eggs during the last three days before hatching. Many experts say if you can turn them 4-5 times a day it is even better. Follow the instructions above and the further details you will find in your incubator's instruction guide.Įggs must be turned at least 2-3 times daily during the incubation period. Many experts agree that a common cause of poor hatch rates is TOO MUCH humidity during the first part of incubating and NOT ENOUGH during the last three days (the 'lock-down' period). This will increase the surface area that is wet, allowing more water to evaporate into the air which increases the humidity. This will not hurt the incubator, though it sure makes it easier to tell if you have enough water!Īnother Tip: Having a hard time getting the humidity high enough? Try placing small sponges inside the incubator. In the Little Giant, this will color the foam. It will change again when the water channel is actually dry. As the water level decreases, you'll notice the color of the water (due to the food coloring) start to darken. Humidity Tip: If you find that you are having a difficult time seeing the water in the channels to know if there is enough water, try this little trick: just add a drop or two of food coloring to the water. Check the water level periodically to ensure they don't dry out.

Please note that the humidity in your area will have an impact on how much water you'll need in the incubator to keep it within the correct humidity range. Follow the instructions that come with the incubators.

#Bird incubator how to

The Little Giant and Hova-Bator incubators come with simple instructions on how to use the water channels in the floor of the incubator. Keeping an adequate humidity range inside your incubator is quite simple.

During the last three days (the 'lock-down' period), the humidity level should be increased to between 70-80%. The ideal humidity level for hatching eggs is still being debated among experts, but many agree that it should not fall below 25% or above 60% between setting and three days prior to hatching. Humidity is controlled in order to prevent unnecessary loss of egg moisture. Abrupt warming from 55 degrees to 100 degrees can cause moisture condensation on the egg shell which can lead to disease and reduced hatches. Allow cool eggs to warm slowly to room temperature before placing in the incubator. Eggs have the best hatch rate when stored for no more than 7 days before beginning to incubate.