What temperature will kill your incubating eggs?

Incubating eggs requires maintaining a specific temperature range for optimal embryo development and hatching. Deviation from this range can have adverse effects on the viability and health of the embryos. Temperatures that are too high or too low can both be detrimental.

High temperatures: Excessive heat can cause protein denaturation and dehydration within the egg, leading to embryo mortality. The exact temperature threshold at which eggs die can vary among species and specific incubation conditions, but generally, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 39.5 degrees Celsius (103 degrees Fahrenheit) is considered harmful to most avian eggs.

Low temperatures: While brief exposure to slightly cool temperatures may not be fatal, prolonged periods below the optimal temperature range can slow embryonic development and reduce hatching rates. In general, temperatures below 37.5 degrees Celsius (99.5 degrees Fahrenheit) can impede embryo growth, while temperatures below 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) can lead to developmental abnormalities.

It's important to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the incubation period, avoiding rapid fluctuations that can also stress the embryos. Proper monitoring and adjustment of incubators are crucial to ensuring optimal conditions for successful egg hatching.