Raising backyard chickens has become increasingly popular, offering fresh eggs and a connection to sustainable living. For those looking to expand their flock, incubating and hatching chicken eggs can be a rewarding experience. Chicken eggs typically take 21 days to hatch, though some may emerge a day or two earlier or later.
The process begins with proper egg selection and storage. Collect fertile eggs from healthy hens and store them in a cool area between 55 to 60°F (12.7 to 15.5°C) for up to 7 days before incubation. Setting up an incubator correctly is crucial for successful hatching. Maintain a stable temperature and humidity level, and turn the eggs regularly to mimic a hen’s natural behavior.
Monitoring the incubation process closely helps ensure optimal conditions for the developing chicks. As the hatch date approaches, excitement builds in anticipation of fluffy new additions to the backyard flock. With patience and attention to detail, backyard chicken enthusiasts can experience the joy of watching their own chicks hatch and grow.
Selecting the Right Incubator
Choosing an appropriate incubator is crucial for successful egg hatching. The right equipment can significantly improve hatch rates and make the process more manageable for backyard chicken enthusiasts.
Understanding Incubator Types
Forced-air incubators use fans to circulate warm air, providing consistent temperature throughout. They typically accommodate more eggs and offer better temperature control. Still-air incubators lack fans and rely on natural air circulation. These are often simpler and less expensive but may require more frequent monitoring.
Tabletop models are suitable for small-scale hatching, while cabinet-style incubators cater to larger batches. Some incubators come with built-in egg turners, eliminating the need for manual turning.
Key Features of an Egg Incubator
A reliable thermometer is essential for maintaining the ideal temperature of 99.5-100.5°F for chicken eggs. Digital thermometers offer precise readings and are easy to use.
Hygrometers measure humidity levels, which should be around 50-55% during incubation and 65-70% during hatching. Proper humidity prevents eggs from drying out or retaining excess moisture.
Automatic egg turners rotate eggs regularly, mimicking a hen’s natural behavior. This feature saves time and ensures consistent turning.
Clear viewing windows allow observation without opening the incubator and disrupting the environment.
A sturdy construction with good insulation helps maintain stable conditions throughout the incubation period.
Preparation for Incubation
Proper preparation is crucial for successful egg incubation. This involves sourcing quality fertilized eggs, setting up an appropriate incubation space, and carefully calibrating the incubator.
Sourcing Fertilized Eggs
Obtain fertilized eggs from a reputable breeder or your own flock. Fresh eggs less than 7 days old yield the best hatch rates. Store eggs pointed end down at 55-60°F (12.7-15.5°C) and 75% humidity.
Turn stored eggs daily to prevent the yolk from sticking to the shell. Mark one side with an X to track turning. Avoid washing eggs, as this removes the protective bloom.
Inspect eggs for cracks or abnormalities before incubation. Reject any with obvious defects to improve overall hatch success.
Setting Up the Incubation Space
Choose a stable indoor location away from drafts and direct sunlight. Maintain room temperature between 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimal incubator performance.
Clean and sanitize the incubation area thoroughly. Use a mild disinfectant to reduce bacterial contamination risks.
Ensure a reliable power source is available. Consider using a backup generator or uninterruptible power supply for emergencies.
Set up a small table or stand to place the incubator on, allowing easy access for monitoring and adjustments.
Incubator Calibration
Start the incubator 24-48 hours before adding eggs to stabilize temperature and humidity. For chicken eggs, aim for:
- Forced-air incubator: 99-99.5°F (37.2-37.5°C)
- Still-air incubator: 100.5°F (38°C)
- Relative humidity: 50-55%
Use accurate thermometers and hygrometers to verify readings. Place them at egg level for precise measurements.
Fill water reservoirs and adjust vents to achieve proper humidity. Monitor and refill as needed throughout incubation.
Test egg turning mechanisms if using an automatic incubator. Ensure smooth operation before introducing eggs.
Incubation Process
Successful egg incubation requires careful control of temperature, humidity, and egg positioning. Maintaining proper conditions throughout the 21-day incubation period is crucial for healthy chick development.
Maintaining Optimal Conditions
Temperature is the most critical factor in egg incubation. Set the incubator to 99-102°F (37.2-38.9°C). Even small fluctuations can impact embryo development.
Humidity should be 50-55% for the first 18 days, then increased to 65-70% for the final 3 days. This prevents excessive moisture loss from the eggs.
Ensure proper ventilation to allow oxygen flow and carbon dioxide removal. Many incubators have adjustable vents to control airflow.
Monitor conditions closely with accurate thermometers and hygrometers. Make small adjustments as needed to maintain stability.
Turning the Eggs
Turn eggs at least 3 times daily for the first 18 days of incubation. This prevents the embryo from sticking to the shell membrane.
Most incubators have automatic egg turners. If turning manually, mark one side of each egg with an X to track rotations.
Stop turning eggs on day 18. This allows the chick to position itself properly for hatching.
Proper turning helps ensure even development and prevents malformations.
Monitoring Development
Candle eggs periodically to check development. Use a bright light source to illuminate the egg’s interior.
By day 7-10, you should see veins and a dark spot (the embryo). An air cell at the large end of the egg should grow larger over time.
Remove any eggs that show no development or appear cloudy. These may be infertile or contain dead embryos.
On day 18, you may hear chirping from inside the eggs. Resist opening the incubator, as this can disrupt humidity levels crucial for hatching.
Final Days of Incubation
The final days of incubation are crucial for successful chicken egg hatching. Proper preparation and careful monitoring during this period significantly increase the chances of healthy chicks emerging.
Pre-lockdown Checklist
Ensure the incubator maintains a steady temperature between 99-102°F (37-39°C). Humidity should be around 50-60%. Stop turning eggs on day 18 of incubation.
Remove any egg turners from the incubator. Place eggs on their sides in a hatching tray or on a flat surface.
Prepare a clean, warm brooder for the chicks. Have food, water, and bedding ready.
Sanitize your hands before handling eggs or equipment to prevent contamination.
Lockdown Period
Lockdown begins on day 18 and continues until hatching. Increase humidity to 65-70% to prevent membranes from drying out.
Do not open the incubator during lockdown unless absolutely necessary. This maintains consistent temperature and humidity levels.
Chicks may start pipping (cracking the shell) around day 19-20. The hatching process can take 24-48 hours.
Resist the urge to help struggling chicks. Intervention can cause more harm than good.
Once chicks have fully hatched and dried, move them to the prepared brooder. Ensure they have access to water and chick starter feed.
Hatching and Brooding
The final stages of incubation lead to the exciting moment of chicks emerging from their shells. Proper care during hatching and the initial brooding period is crucial for the health and survival of newborn chicks.
The Hatching Phase
As day 21 approaches, increase incubator humidity to 70%. Stop turning eggs and minimize opening the incubator. Chicks will begin to pip, or break through the shell, creating a small hole. This process can take 12-24 hours.
Listen for peeping sounds as chicks work to free themselves. Resist the urge to help – chicks need this struggle to build strength. Once hatched, let chicks dry in the incubator for several hours before moving them to a brooder.
Expect a hatch rate of 75-80% for fertile eggs. Remove unhatched eggs after 25 days. Dispose of these properly to prevent contamination.
Caring for Newborn Chicks
Prepare a clean, draft-free brooder before chicks hatch. Line it with paper towels for the first few days, then switch to pine shavings. Install a heat lamp to maintain a temperature of 95°F for the first week.
Provide fresh water in shallow dishes. Use chick starter feed in low feeders. Gradually lower brooder temperature by 5°F each week until reaching room temperature.
Monitor chicks closely for signs of illness or distress. Keep the brooder clean and dry. Handle chicks gently to socialize them. With proper care, your backyard flock will thrive and grow quickly.
Post-Hatching Care
Proper care after hatching is crucial for the health and development of chicks. Key aspects include providing warmth, nutrition, and monitoring for potential health issues.
Feeding and Nutrition
Chicks require a specialized diet for optimal growth. Offer starter feed with 18-20% protein content, formulated specifically for young poultry. Place feed in shallow trays for easy access.
Provide clean, fresh water in shallow containers to prevent drowning. Change water frequently to maintain cleanliness.
Egg yolk absorbed just before hatching sustains chicks for the first 24-48 hours. After this period, ensure constant access to feed and water.
Introduce grit after the first week to aid digestion. Avoid treats initially, focusing on balanced nutrition from starter feed.
Health Monitoring and Vaccination
Observe chicks closely for signs of illness or distress. Check for normal activity, clear eyes, and proper waste elimination.
Maintain a clean brooder environment to prevent disease. Remove soiled bedding promptly and disinfect equipment regularly.
Implement a vaccination schedule as recommended by a veterinarian. Common vaccines protect against Marek’s disease, Newcastle disease, and infectious bronchitis.
Monitor temperature carefully. Start at 95°F (35°C) in the first week, reducing by 5°F weekly until reaching room temperature.
Watch for pasty butt, a condition where droppings stick to the vent. Clean gently with warm water if observed.