Parts of an Incubator

For fertile bird or reptile eggs to hatch, conditions must be optimal. These conditions include a constant, appropriate temperature and steady humidity. Properly built incubators provide these conditions as well as a safe place for the eggs to be undisturbed except for daily turning. Several main components are necessary for an incubator to achieve the desired environment.

  1. Housing

    • Any container large enough to house all the components and the eggs will serve. It must have a tight-fitting lid, but the lid should be removable. In addition, several ventilation holes should be present in the top and sides to assist in airflow through the chamber. Though not necessary, you can insulate the housing as well as line it with a reflective material such as heavy-duty aluminum foil. Examples of items to use for housing include cardboard boxes, plastic or Styrofoam coolers, old refrigerators, packing crates or clean trash cans.

    Heat

    • Most important is the heat source. The easiest item to use for this is an incandescent light bulb, although commercial units are available that are made specifically for incubators. Depending on the size of the housing, mount between two and four light sockets evenly inside the incubator. Ceramic sockets are best for protection against fire. Combined wattage of all light bulbs should add up to no more than 100 watts. This will keep the chamber at optimum temperature. Optionally, you can wire an electronic thermostat switch to the sockets so that heat remains constant without much intervention.

    Humidity

    • You can achieve proper humidity with an open container of water at the bottom of the incubator, well away from the light sockets. Do not allow the water pan to become dry. Alternatively, use a damp cloth, but keep it damp at all times.

    Thermometer

    • Place an electronic or mechanical thermometer into one of the ventilation holes, with the probe inside the housing. Maintain a constant temperature throughout the incubation period. You can replace the thermometer with a reliable thermostat switch that controls the light bulbs.

    Hygrometer

    • Use an electronic or mechanical hygrometer to monitor humidity. Place it in another of the vents with its probe inside. Hygrometers are available where room thermometers are sold.

    Platform

    • The eggs should rest on a sturdy platform. A wire screen elevating them above the water pan or a compartmentalized egg crate or other container are good examples. Ideally, the platform should provide for a high degree of airflow around each egg during incubation.