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Peafowl

A spectacular ornamental bird; a prized species needing long incubation and patient care.

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 25
Hatch humidity
65–70 %
Candling days
10, 18, 25
Hatch window
27–30 days

Peafowl Incubation Guide

Difficulty: Advanced

Overview

The Peafowl is a ornamental bird, and its eggs hatch in about 28 days, with a normal window of days 27-30. Incubation difficulty is rated Advanced. 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, 25. 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 25, stop turning (lockdown), raise humidity to 65-70% and keep the incubator closed as much as possible. Hatching is expected on days 27-30; 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 Peafowl

How long do Peafowl eggs take to hatch?

Peafowl eggs hatch in about 28 days; most hatch between days 27 and 30.

What temperature and humidity do Peafowl 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 Peafowl eggs?

Candle on days 10, 18, 25 and remove clear or non-developing eggs at these checks.

When do you stop turning Peafowl eggs?

Stop turning on day 25, then raise the humidity and keep the incubator closed until the chicks hatch.

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