Hello I am worndering if those little automatic 3 egg bators ,like for school projects ,science project type bator, do they work? I would like to try,to hatch eggs, I just dont want to invest a lot of money for a real good one if I cant handle[emotionally] losing only 3 eggs, know what I mean? Thanks for your opinion! Happy 4th!!!
I haven't tried one but... they don't get real good reviews. What I have heard specifically: * Temps are almost impossible to maintain. You will spend a lot of time every day babysitting to make sure the temp is right. * As a result, temp spikes and drops are common and can often lead to a lost hatch * Humidity is likewise difficult to maintain * Regulating temperature is controlled by adding or removing insulation, which is pretty nit-picky If you're into aquarium fish, you've probably heard the recommendation that beginners start with at LEAST a twenty-gallon tank because it's just easier to maintain and they're more likely to have success and continue with the hobby. Likewise with incubators--if your first effort is a pain in the butt and a failure to boot, you're not likely to want to try again. I recommend you start with something a little more reliable. If money is a big issue (and it is for lots of folks, understandably!), the Little Giant commonly available at feed stores is a reasonable choice. It requires a little babysitting, but not too bad, and it's not hard to get a good hatch out of one. It holds up to 42 eggs in a turner or slightly more without an auto turner (which is not included in the price). They are usually available for between $45-55. If you just want to be sure of a good hatch and you don't mind spending a little extra, Brinsea makes some awesome no-brainer incubators that are to die for. But they are at a hobbyist price, which is to say that you ain't going to make money hatching in them because they expensive. If you think you're likely to hatch again and you're not sure how many, and you want something inexpensive but really really reliable and rock solid, I highly recommend the Hovabator forced air incubator. It's slightly more expensive than the Little Giant (but not a lot), much LESS expensive than the Brinsea, holds the same number of eggs as the Little Giant, and is much more reliable and low-maintenance. Good luck with whatever you decide. Hatching is a blast.
Here's my thought: the 3 egg bator costs what? about $40? I got my Hovabator at a local feed and seed for $65 last year. I hatched 18 eggs with plenty of room. I could hatch just 3 if I wanted. It's just a thought.
I would suggest spending a bit more money and get something that will hold up to 7. I have the Brinsea Mini Advance and it is a great incubator. Set and go. If you only want to set three eggs that would be fine. Good Luck!
