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.
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
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 long do Turkey eggs take to hatch?
Turkey eggs hatch in about 28 days; most hatch between days 27 and 29.
What temperature and humidity do Turkey 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 Turkey eggs?
Candle on days 8, 14, 25 and remove clear or non-developing eggs at these checks.
When do you stop turning Turkey eggs?
Stop turning on day 25, then raise the humidity and keep the incubator closed until the chicks hatch.
