1. Gather Materials:
- Quail eggs (Select fresh, clean, and unwashed eggs.)
- Incubator (quail-specific or small bird-sized)
- Hygrometer (for monitoring humidity)
- Thermometer (for temperature control)
- Automatic turner or egg tray (optional, can turn the eggs manually as well)
- A clean and dry room with consistent temperature
2. Prepare the Incubator:
- Set the incubator to maintain a temperature of 37.5-38°C (100-100.4°F).
- Calibrate your hygrometer and set the humidity to around 45-55% until day 14, then increase to around 65-70%.
3. Sanitization and Egg Loading:
- Before handling eggs, wash your hands thoroughly.
- Gently place the quail eggs into the egg tray, pointy-end down.
- Mark each egg with a small X to distinguish them from ones turned later.
4. Turning and Monitoring:
- Automatic turners rotate the eggs every few hours, but if rotating eggs manually, do so at least twice a day, gently turning each egg 180 degrees.
- Monitor the temperature and humidity daily to maintain desired levels.
5. Candling:
- Around day 7-10, perform "candling" by using a small flashlight or candler to check egg fertility and development inside.
- Remove unfertilized or broken eggs.
6. Lockdown:
- On day 14-16, stop turning the eggs and enter "lockdown."
- Do not open the incubator frequently, as it may disrupt the humidity levels and affect hatching.
7. Hatching Period:
- Day 18-24 is the typical hatching period for quail.
- Some eggs might hatch earlier, while others might take a little longer. Be patient.
8. Post-Hatching Care:
- Gently assist any unhatched chicks in breaking out of the shell if necessary.
- Leave the chicks in the incubator for 24-36 hours to dry fully.
- Then, move the hatched quail chicks into a suitable brooder box or habitat with proper warmth and food.
Note:
- Incubation periods may slightly vary among different quail breeds.
- Ensure proper ventilation within the incubator to prevent carbon dioxide build-up.
- Avoid touching or handling the eggs as germs may compromise their development.
By carefully following these steps and providing proper care, you can successfully incubate quail and hatch your own adorable quail chicks!