How to Make an Easy Incubator

Whether hatching for farming or classroom project, making your own incubator is not difficult. Among the types of incubators available for purchase, the still air is the most common. Still air incubators use heat that is not forced into the area and are easy to make using household items. Every bird species temperature requirements will vary.

Things You'll Need

  • Large Styrofoam cooler
  • Corded light socket with dimmer
  • Small bowl
  • Small sponge
  • Water
  • Small plastic fan
  • Screwdriver
  • Thermometer
  • Sharp knife
  • Glue
  • Piece of glass, 8 inches by 8 inches
  • 25-watt bulb
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Instructions

    • 1

      Trace a circle around the light socket on the lid of the cooler. Using a sharp knife, cut out the circle. Place the light socket into the hole, keeping the switch outside the cooler.

    • 2

      Cut a rectangular window the size of your glass piece on the front side of the cooler. Place the glass in the hole and secure it with glue.

    • 3

      Poke holes on the side of the cooler with a screwdriver to allow for proper ventilation.

    • 4

      Place the fan in the cooler to circulate heat. Position a sponge in the middle of a small bowl and place it in the cooler. Add enough water to cover the bottom of the bowl. The sponge will absorb water and assist with humidity.

    • 5

      Turn on the fan and allow it to circulate heat before placing eggs in the incubator. Place the thermometer into the incubator and secure it to the side.