Incubator Hatching Problems

Some breeders hatch eggs in incubators to increase production while others use an incubator in an emergency. Incubators can save an embryo and help it hatch. However, death of an embryo can result from the wrong temperature, improper humidity, incorrect ventilation or insufficient turning.

  1. Temperature

    • It is important to follow the recommended temperature of the specific incubator and species of chicks you are hatching. Some breeders use two thermometers in case one does not function correctly. Always observe the thermometer several times a day, and if it rises above or falls below the requirements adjust the settings. Keeping the eggs too warm will cause the chicks to hatch early. When the temperature is too low, the chicks may hatch late. Both can cause the embryo to die, or the hatched chick to be unhealthy or deformed. The temperature, ventilation and humidity in the room that the incubator is located in must also be controlled for the incubator to work consistently.

    Humidity

    • Humidity is important for the chicks to develop and hatch properly. Incubators that have a fan need to have the humidity controlled for the type of incubator and species. During incubation the egg will lose moisture, however an excessive loss of moisture can result in death. Additionally, if there is too much moisture the embryo may drown once it begins to breathe. If the chicks begin to pip the shell and the humidity is too low the chicks may stick to the shell and die before hatching. The web-bulb relative humidity temperature needs to be increased once hatching begins according to the manufacturer's recommended settings. If the humidity is too high the chick cannot pip out of the shell.

    Ventilation

    • Many incubators come with a fan to provide air circulation and ventilation. If your brooder does not have a fan, adjust the cover or door to let enough air in to ventilate the incubator and still maintain the temperature. However, drafts need to be avoided.

    Turning

    • Some incubators come with an automatic egg turning device. If the turner is not working or the incubator is not supplied with a turner, the eggs need to be turned by hand a minimum of three times each day until three days before hatching is to occur. If the egg is not turned often enough the chick may not develop correctly and be deformed.

    Power Failure

    • If the power goes out, open the incubator until the power comes back on. If the power fails you will need to watch the temperature and humidity closely. If it starts to get too hot, open the lid or door to let a small amount of air in to cool it down. If the temperature is dropping, find another method to add heat. Many breeders keep a small generator in case of a power failure. Carefully observe the thermometer to make necessary adjustments.