Overview
The Turkey is a landfowl, and its eggs hatch in about 28 days, with a normal window of days 27-29. Incubation difficulty is rated Beginner. Below you'll find the temperature, humidity, turning, candling and hatching steps for this species.
All species
landfowlBeginner
Turkey
Large meat bird with chicken-like incubation needs but a longer 28-day term.
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 25
Hatch humidity
65–70 %
Candling days
8, 14, 25
Hatch window
27–29 days
Turkey Incubation Guide
Difficulty: BeginnerTemperature 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: 8, 14, 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 27-29; 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 Turkey
How many days does a Turkey egg take to hatch?
Turkey eggs usually hatch in 28 days, with a normal window of days 27-29.
What temperature is Turkey 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 Turkey eggs be candled?
Recommended candling days: 8, 14, 25. Remove any clear or non-developing eggs at these checks.
