How to Make an Incubator for Hatching Ducklings

A homemade incubator is an effective tool for hatching ducklings, providing breeders with a constant temperature and suitable humidity. It is up to the breeder to rotate the eggs regularly during the three weeks of incubation. Purchase fertilized eggs from a farmer or breeder, selecting eggs of a normal size and shape.

Things You'll Need

  • Small sheet of glass or clear plastic
  • Styrofoam cooler
  • Box cutter
  • Duct tape
  • Lamp with a 25-watt bulb
  • Chicken wire with a small mesh
  • Wire cutters
  • Temperature-and-humidity monitor
  • Small bowl
  • Sponge
  • Pencil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the sheet of glass and cut a hole in the top of the cooler, about 1-inch smaller in each dimension, using the box cutter. Place the piece of glass over the hole and secure it to the cooler with duct tape. This creates an observation window.

    • 2

      Cut a hole the size of the lamp socket in one side of the cooler, close to the top. Fit the socket into the hole and tape around it, inside and out, for air tightness. Screw in the 25-watt bulb inside the incubator.

    • 3

      Cut a piece of chicken wire and bend it to enclose the lightbulb. Cut a second piece of chicken wire and bend it to make a 1-inch-high platform to fit the width of the incubator. Place it on the floor of the incubator, opposite the lamp.

    • 4

      Place the sponge in the bowl and fill it halfway with water. Position it on the wire platform. Position the temperature-and-humidity monitor next to it.

    • 5

      Run a test for heat and humidity levels. Place the lid on the incubator and turn on the lamp. Monitor the temperature and humidity for the next few hours by looking through the observation window. An optimum temperature is between 98° and 101° F, but ideally should not fluctuate more than 1°. Humidity should stay between 55 and 75 percent, increasing in the last days.

    • 6

      Increase the temperature and humidity by sealing any holes in the incubator with duct tape. Decrease temperature by making small holes with a pencil or box cutter. Changing the lightbulb for one with a different wattage will also alter the temperature.

    • 7

      Introduce the eggs to the incubator, placing them together next to the bowl on the platform. Check the temperature and humidity frequently during the first few days of incubation. Carefully turn the eggs a quarter-turn at least 3 times a day for the first 18 days. Do not turn the eggs during the last four days of incubation.