Hatching eggs in an incubator can be an exciting yet challenging process. Many poultry farmers and bird enthusiasts experience failed hatches due to avoidable mistakes. If your eggs aren’t hatching, several factors may be responsible, from incorrect temperature to improper egg handling. In this guide, we’ll cover 10 common incubation mistakes and how to fix them to improve your hatch rates.
1. Incorrect Temperature Settings
❌ Mistake:
- The incubator temperature is either too high or too low.
- Temperature fluctuations occur due to poor calibration or power failures.
✅ Solution:
- Maintain a steady temperature of 99.5°F (37.5°C) for forced-air incubators and 100-101°F (37.8-38.3°C) for still-air incubators.
- Use a high-quality digital thermometer and calibrate it before incubation.
- Keep the incubator in a stable environment away from direct sunlight and cold drafts.
2. Incorrect Humidity Levels
❌ Mistake:
- Low humidity leads to shrink-wrapped chicks (where the membrane dries out).
- High humidity prevents proper moisture loss from the egg, causing weak chicks.
✅ Solution:
- Maintain 50-55% humidity during the first 18 days and 65-75% during lockdown (last 3 days).
- Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity.
- Add water trays or sponges for more humidity and remove water if it's too high.
3. Poor Egg Turning
❌ Mistake:
- Eggs are not turned frequently enough, causing embryos to stick to the shell membrane.
- Uneven heating inside the incubator due to lack of turning.
✅ Solution:
- Turn eggs at least 3-5 times a day until day 18 (lockdown period).
- If using an automatic incubator, check if the turner is functioning correctly.
- Mark eggs with X and O to ensure even turning if done manually.
4. Using Dirty or Old Eggs
❌ Mistake:
- Using eggs that are too old reduces fertility and hatch rates.
- Dirty eggs introduce bacteria, leading to contamination.
✅ Solution:
- Use fresh, clean eggs no older than 7-10 days for incubation.
- Store eggs at 50-60°F (10-15°C) with the pointed end facing down.
- Avoid washing eggs, as this removes the protective bloom.
5. Poor Ventilation in the Incubator
❌ Mistake:
- Lack of fresh oxygen supply affects embryo development.
- Excess CO₂ buildup leads to weak or dead chicks.
✅ Solution:
- Keep ventilation holes open, especially during the last days of incubation.
- Ensure proper air circulation inside the incubator.
6. Setting Infertile or Damaged Eggs
❌ Mistake:
- Some eggs are infertile, meaning they won’t develop.
- Cracked or thin-shelled eggs can’t support proper embryo growth.
✅ Solution:
- Candle eggs on days 7, 14, and 18 to check for embryo development.
- Discard infertile or non-developing eggs to prevent contamination.
- Choose eggs with strong, intact shells.
7. Opening the Incubator Too Often
❌ Mistake:
- Frequent opening causes temperature and humidity fluctuations.
- Chicks in the lockdown phase get shrink-wrapped.
✅ Solution:
- Avoid opening the incubator unless necessary.
- During lockdown (days 18-21), do NOT open the incubator to maintain stable conditions.
8. Power Outages or Equipment Failure
❌ Mistake:
- Power failure causes temperature drops, killing developing embryos.
- Malfunctioning incubators lead to uneven heating.
✅ Solution:
- Use a backup power source or generator.
- Regularly check incubator heating elements and fans for functionality.
9. Incubating Eggs from Unhealthy or Stressed Hens
❌ Mistake:
- Eggs from sick or stressed hens often have low fertility.
- Poor nutrition leads to weak embryos.
✅ Solution:
- Select eggs from healthy, well-fed hens and roosters.
- Provide a balanced diet with calcium and vitamins for strong eggshells.
10. Not Providing Enough Time for Hatching
❌ Mistake:
- Removing eggs too early, thinking they won’t hatch.
- Interfering with hatching chicks too soon.
✅ Solution:
- Be patient! Some chicks hatch late (day 22-23), especially if incubation conditions fluctuated.
- Only assist hatching if a chick is stuck for over 24 hours after external pipping.
Final Thoughts: How to Improve Your Hatch Rate
To ensure successful incubation:
✔ Calibrate your incubator before setting eggs.
✔ Monitor temperature and humidity daily.
✔ Turn eggs regularly until day 18.
✔ Choose fresh, fertile, and clean eggs.
✔ Minimize incubator opening, especially during lockdown.
By avoiding these common incubation mistakes, you can significantly improve your hatch rates and enjoy a successful hatching experience!
Tags:
Hatching-Incubation