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Guinea Fowl
game birdIntermediate

Guinea Fowl

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

Incubation Parameters

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 many days does a Guinea Fowl egg take to hatch?

Guinea Fowl eggs usually hatch in 28 days, with a normal window of days 26-28.

What temperature is Guinea Fowl incubation done at?

In a forced-air incubator, 37.4-37.6 °C and 50-55% humidity are recommended; during lockdown humidity is raised to 65-70%.

When should Guinea Fowl eggs be candled?

Recommended candling days: 10, 18, 24. Remove any clear or non-developing eggs at these checks.

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