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game birdIntermediate

Guinea Fowl

Hardy yard bird with thick-shelled eggs; excellent at controlling ticks and insects.

28
days incubation
37.6
°C temperature
55
% humidity
Incubation period
28 days
Temperature
37.4–37.6 °C
Humidity (phase 1)
50–55 %
Turning
5 times per day
Lockdown day
day 24
Hatch humidity
65–70 %
Candling days
10, 18, 24
Hatch window
26–28 days

Guinea Fowl Incubation Guide

Difficulty: Intermediate

Overview

The Guinea Fowl is a game bird, and its eggs hatch in about 28 days, with a normal window of days 26-28. Incubation difficulty is rated Intermediate. Below you'll find the temperature, humidity, turning, candling and hatching steps for this species.

Temperature and humidity

In a forced-air (fan) incubator, hold the temperature steady at 37.4-37.6 °C and target 50-55% relative humidity in the first stage. Verify the readout with a reliable digital thermometer and hygrometer.

Turning and candling

Turn the eggs an odd number of times per day, 5 times, so the embryo doesn't stick to the shell. Recommended candling days: 10, 18, 24. In a dark room, hold the egg to a strong light; a vein network and movement show fertility, and clear eggs should be removed.

Lockdown and hatching

On day 24, stop turning (lockdown), raise humidity to 65-70% and keep the incubator closed as much as possible. Hatching is expected on days 26-28; once chicks start pipping the shell, be patient, as hatching can take hours.

After-hatch care

Leave the chicks in the incubator until their down dries and they perk up, then move them to a brooder kept at 35 °C for the first week, lowering the heat by about 3 °C each week. Provide clean water and quality starter feed at all times.

Frequently asked questions about Guinea Fowl

How long do Guinea Fowl eggs take to hatch?

Guinea Fowl eggs hatch in about 28 days; most hatch between days 26 and 28.

What temperature and humidity do Guinea Fowl eggs need?

In a forced-air incubator, 37.4–37.6 °C with 50–55% humidity; in the last few days (lockdown) raise the humidity to 65–70%.

When do you candle Guinea Fowl eggs?

Candle on days 10, 18, 24 and remove clear or non-developing eggs at these checks.

When do you stop turning Guinea Fowl eggs?

Stop turning on day 24, then raise the humidity and keep the incubator closed until the chicks hatch.

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