Incubator
- MUST be kept at 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Humidity level 60% for the first 20 days of incubation.
- On the last three days, the humidity should be raised to 75%
- Incubators must be humid, and not too dry, otherwise the embryos will stick to the membrane and result in deformities.
- If the incubators are too humid, the embryos will drown.
- To measure humidity, you can use a hygrometer, (they are inexpensive sold in most pet stores for reptiles, but NOT necessary). Make sure the first track (the outer track) is filled in incubator at all times. Check the water in the track DAILY. Before hatching (a day or 2 ) keep both tracks filled (inner and outer tracks).
- The incubator must be in a well ventilated room.
- Incubation period is 22-24 days (record incubation start date and hatch date).
- Do not wash eggs prior to placing them in the incubator.
- Mark one side of egg with a SOFT LEAD PENCIL (no markers,crayons, paint, pens, etc as this could result in the eggs not hatching.)
- Turn eggs three times a day, with the palm of your hand, to prevent egg embryos sticking to egg membrane.
- Stop turning the eggs (approximately) 3 days before they hatch.
- You must watch the temperature, because as the embryos develop, they will produce heat.
- As the eggs start to hatch, periodically open the incubator to release moisture so the chicks can dry.
- Move the chicks to the brooder (should be set up and have regulated temperature) when the chicks are COMPLETELY dry.
- DO NOT help the chicks out of the eggs.