day 24, what to do?

[Londonchix]

Also before I forget (as I plan to have a huge glass of wine tonight to help drown my sorrows

), you all have been a great help. Thanks so much!

 

[WVduckchick]

What brand of incubator? I set mine on 38.0-38.1 for the days prior to lockdown. Setting it at 37.5 will not actually "average" 37.5. That will be the maximum temp that it gets to. So if it falls to 36.5 before the heater kicks in, then your average is only around 37.0 which is not warm enough.

 

[Londonchix]

This is my incubator. Bought it new on eBay. Ugh.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Incubator...-Chicken-Candler-Hatcher-Supply-/171570766901

 

[WVduckchick]

Quote:
That's the same one I have. So I would wager that your temps were definitely too low. But that doesn't mean the ones you have left will not hatch. Give them another day or two. Before your next setting, I would recommend another thermometer and hygrometer, and make sure you calibrate them! Twice! haha. Start with the unit on set on 38.0 and go with your external gauges to make changes from there. I pay no attention at all to the humidity meter on my unit. It runs at least 20% low!

 

[AmyLynn2374]

Quote: xs2

 

[WVduckchick]

By the way, we call that the Janoel knock-off because its modeled after a Janoel incubator, but I assume its made by a different company. If you do a search on this site for Janoel knock-off, you should find lots of info on it, and some modifications that have made it more efficient. Its a cheap incubator, but I did have a successful hatch with it just this past weekend, so it can work! Good luck to you!

 

[Londonchix]

I don't have much hope for the remaining ones. I just candled them and I don't see any change in the air sac from yesterday. I also could not see any movement. Does this mean they have quit on me?

There is definitely no substitute for a broody hen, is there?! I am going to go have a chat with the ladies to see if that gets them broody again

.

Well, back to my wine. Cheers!

 

[WVduckchick]

I have to ask... You didn't count the day you set the eggs as day 1, did you? Day 1 doesn't technically start until 24 hours after setting. And the guideline for days to hatch is just that - a guideline.

 

[Londonchix]

Hmmm, yes I did count from day one. I will have to rethink that as well for my next time around. Now that I am on day 25 I still don't have much hope.

 

[Outpost JWB]

My thought is put it behind you and go for another hatch. Don't look back but remember what you've learned from it. With proper temp you'll have success.

So sorry to hear about the eggs.

I agree with egghead jr. I've hatched out many batches myself and none have been 100% but all have been at least 60%. I use my friend's cheap Styrofoam incubator with the automatic turner. I would not blame the deformed one on yourself. I have never heard of temps causing tumors. Temps & humidity factors can be responsible for spraddle leg, curled toes, shrink wrap and other types of problems, but not tumors. Caring for chickens is a learning experience, every day. Take care and let us know if you need anything.