Things You'll Need
- Guinea fowl eggs
- Egg incubator (preferably a forced-air model complete with a turner)
- Thermometer
- Automatic hygrometer or wet/dry bulb thermometer
Instructions
Preparing the Incubator
Begin preparation of the incubator one or two days prior to housing the eggs, to ensure correct temperature and humidity levels are maintained.
Clean incubator thoroughly using water and a mild disinfectant soap. Allow to dry completely while disassembled before proceeding.
Find an ideal location to keep the incubator. The ideal place is a low-traffic room, free of direct sunlight and drafts. Steer clear of heat sources and air vents. It is good to keep the incubator on a table or other stable, elevated surface.
Add warm water to the base of the incubator to maintain humidity. Fill the biggest portion of the base (without holes) almost to the top.
Place the mesh floor in the incubator, followed by the turner.
Place the thermometer in a location where the reader will be level with the topmost part of the eggs. Make sure it can be easily read from the outside.
Add the humidity indicator. If using a hygrometer, place it close to the center of the incubator, but away from the heating element. A wet/dry bulb thermometer should have its wick in the water, but be kept out of the way of the turner.
Place the lid on the incubator, making sure all seals and windows are airtight. Plug in the power cord.
Calibrate the incubator until the internal temperature remains at 100 degrees Fahrenheit (102 if using a still-air model) and relative humidity is at 58-60% (84-86 degrees Fahrenheit if using the wet/dry bulb thermometer).
Place eggs in the incubator once correct heat and humidity have been attained.
Incubation Period
Place eggs in incubator with the small end facing down.
Keep careful track of temperature and humidity throughout the incubation process, as a variance of a single degree can be problematic for the eggs. Too much humidity can be remedied by removing some of the water from the base using a turkey baster. Too little humidity can be fixed by adding a wet sponge or small cup of water.
Keep ventilation holes free from obstruction. Good ventilation is essential for a successful hatching.
Make sure eggs are turned 4-6 times each day. If not using a turner, make a small mark on each egg to avoid confusion during hand turning.
Cease turning eggs after the 25th day, three days prior to the end of the incubation period.
Increase relative humidity to approximately 65% (90 degrees Fahrenheit) for the last three days of incubation. Keep air vents open.
Clean incubator thoroughly after hatchlings have been removed.