Incubation Guide
Tracking eggs correctly through incubation is the single biggest driver of hatch success.
Incubation Tracker
Choose your species and the date you set the eggs, and we'll work out the candling, lockdown and hatch days.
Select a species and date to begin.
The tool below is a preview. Use the app for reminders, multi-tracking and saved records.
Step-by-Step Incubation
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1. Preparation
Run the incubator at least 24 hours before setting eggs and confirm the temperature and humidity are stable. Bring eggs to room temperature and set them with the blunt end slightly up.
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2. Temperature and Humidity
In forced-air incubators keep the temperature around 37.5 °C (lower for ostrich). Set humidity per the species chart; waterfowl need higher humidity.
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3. Turning
Turn eggs an odd number of times per day (3–5) so the embryo doesn't stick to the shell. With no auto-turner, mark eggs with a pencil and turn by hand.
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4. Candling
On the listed days, hold each egg to a bright light in a dark room. A vein network and movement show fertility; remove clear (infertile) or non-developing eggs.
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5. Lockdown and Hatch
A few days before hatch, stop turning, raise humidity and keep the incubator closed as much as possible. Be patient once pipping starts; hatching can take many hours.
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6. After the Hatch
Leave chicks in the incubator until their down is dry and fluffy (usually 6–24 hours), then move them to a heated brooder.
Quick Tips
- Verify the incubator's display with a reliable digital thermometer and hygrometer.
- Place the incubator in a stable-temperature room, away from direct sun and drafts.
- Don't panic over short power cuts; keep the incubator closed to retain heat.
- Never set cracked, very small, very large or dirty eggs.
- Note the date and your observations at every candling; your own records are the best guide next time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common questions about incubation and chick care.
Can I hatch chicks without an incubator?
Yes — natural incubation is possible with a broody hen, but an incubator gives more consistent results for temperature and humidity control.
How many times a day should I turn the eggs?
Without an automatic turner, at least 3 times a day, ideally 5; an odd number keeps the day–night balance even. Stop turning after lockdown day.
What are the right temperature and humidity?
For most poultry, about 37.5 °C and 45–55% humidity; at lockdown the humidity is raised to 65–75%. See the relevant species page for exact, species-based values.
What does "lockdown" mean?
It is the stage a few days before hatch when you stop turning, raise the humidity and keep the incubator closed.
When is candling done?
Usually on days 7, 14 and just before lockdown, to check development and whether the eggs are fertile.
What temperature do chicks need in their first week after hatching?
The brooder is about 35 °C in the first week, then lowered by roughly 3 °C each week.
Which species does this guide cover?
16 species, including chicken, duck, goose, turkey, quail, Muscovy duck, guinea fowl, pheasant, partridge, pigeon, peafowl, ostrich, budgerigar, cockatiel, canary and lovebird.
Don't just read it — manage your hatch in the app
You've learned the how-to here on KanatlıRehber. The KuluçkaTakip app reminds, calculates and records for you, so you never miss a candling or hatch day.
- Automatic reminders for candling, lockdown and hatch days
- Track several incubations at the same time
- No internet needed — works fully offline
- Your past hatch records and success rates