Thinking about hatching your own chicks? Success comes down to three critical factors - let’s break down the science! 🌡️TEMPERATURE (Most Critical!) Still Air Incubators: 101-102°F measured at top of eggs Forced Air Incubators: 99.5-100°F Why it matters: Even 1°F off can affect hatch rates! 🐣Too high = early hatch, weak chicks, increased mortality 🐣Too low = delayed hatch, poor development, lower hatch rate 💦HUMIDITY (Two-Phase Approach) Days 1-18: 40-50% relative humidity (wet bulb: 85-87°F) 🥚Allows proper moisture loss from egg 🥚Egg should lose 13-15% of original weight Days 19-21 (Lockdown): 65-70% relative humidity (wet bulb: 88-90°F) 🐣Prevents membrane from drying/shrinking around chick 🐣Helps chick pip and zip successfully Why it matters: 🐣Too dry = chicks shrink-wrapped, can’t hatch 🐣Too wet = chicks drown, weak development 🥚TURNING (Days 1-18 Only) Minimum: 3 times daily (odd number prevents same side overnight) Ideal: 5+ times daily or automatic turner Angle: 45° tilt minimum Why it matters: 🐣Prevents embryo from sticking to membrane 🐣Ensures even heat distribution 🐣Promotes proper development STOP turning Day 18! Chicks position for hatching The Golden Rules: 📍 Calibrate thermometer/hygrometer BEFORE incubating 📍 Don’t open incubator unnecessarily (temp/humidity spikes!) 📍 “Lockdown” = NO opening Days 19-21 📍 Let chicks dry 12-24 hours before removing Timeline: 🥚Days 1-18: Turn, monitor temp/humidity 🥚Day 18: STOP turning, increase humidity, lockdown 🥚Days 19-21: Wait! Don’t help chicks hatch 🥚Day 21: Hatch day (can take 24-48 hours) Or you can just let a broody hen do her thing, like @Casey Balkcom ’s Grace just did even through the winter storm! Nice job! Your turn: 1. Still air or forced air incubator? Any strong preferences? 🌡️ 2. Interesting hatch stories? Share!🐣