What Is an Incubator for Hen Eggs?
An incubator is a machine that keeps eggs warm at a steady temperature. A good egg incubator controls heat, humidity, and airflow. These three things help chicks grow inside the shell. The main goal of an incubator is to copy the job of a mother hen.
There are many types of incubators in the market. Some are small and great for beginners. Some are bigger and made for farms. A chicken incubator is the most common, and it works for eggs from hens, ducks, quails, and more.
Why Should You Use an Incubator?
Using an incubator for chicken eggs has many benefits:
- You get better control over temperature.
- You can set and adjust humidity levels.
- You can hatch many eggs at the same time.
- You can see the full hatching process.
- You do not need a broody hen.
This makes hatching easier and more predictable. It also helps you learn more about chickens and their life cycle.
Setting Up Your Egg Incubator
Setting up the Incubator is the most important step. If you set it up well, you will get healthier chicks.
1. Choose a Clean Location
Place the Incubator in a quiet room. Avoid sunlight and cold wind. The room should have a steady temperature.
2. Plug in the Incubator
Turn on the egg incubator for several hours before adding eggs. This helps it warm up and stabilise.
3. Set the Temperature
The best temperature for hen eggs is 99.5°F (37.5°C). Most chicken incubators have built-in controls to adjust this easily.
4. Set the Humidity
Humidity should be around 45–50% for the first 18 days. Increase it to 65–70% for the last days before hatching. Good humidity prevents shells from drying out.
5. Check the Ventilation
Fresh air is important for chick growth. Make sure the vents are open and working.
Preparing the Eggs for Incubation
Before placing the eggs inside the Incubator, follow these steps:
- Pick clean, normal-shaped eggs.
- Avoid cracked or dirty eggs.
- Let eggs rest at room temperature before placing them inside.
- Do not wash the eggs, as this removes the natural layer that protects the embryo.
Place eggs in the Incubator for chicken eggs with the pointed end facing downward.
Turning the Eggs
Eggs must be turned several times a day. This helps the embryo grow in the right position. Most modern incubators come with an automatic turner. If your Incubator does not have one, turn the eggs by hand at least 3–5 times daily.
Stop turning on Day 18. This is when the chicks start to prepare for hatching.
The Final Days Before Hatching
The last three days are known as lockdown. Follow these steps:
- Do not open the Incubator unless needed.
- Increase humidity to 65–70%.
- Keep the temperature steady.
- Listen for small peeping sounds from inside the eggs.
When chicks start breaking the shell, give them time. They may take up to 24 hours to hatch fully.
Caring for the New Chicks
After hatching:
- Leave chicks in the Incubator until they dry and become fluffy.
- Move them to a brooder with clean bedding.
- Provide warm heat at around 95°F (35°C).
- Give clean water and chick starter feed.
A well-used egg incubator can help you raise strong and healthy chicks with ease.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to hatch hen eggs in an incubator?
It takes about 21 days for hen eggs to hatch in an incubator.
2. How many times should I turn the eggs?
Turn eggs 3–5 times daily unless your Incubator has an automatic turner.
3. Can beginners use a chicken incubator?
Yes. Most modern chicken incubators are simple to use and great for first-time users.