Different hatch dates in one incubator?

[Squirlatheart]

Can I add eggs to an incubator that already has eggs in it that are further along? Hope that is not too stupid to ask?

 

[Mahonri]

Not a stupid question.

It's best NOT to do it as the ones that went in first should stop turning and the humidity should go up at day 18 and that can affect the others.

... the exception would be if you are using a Dickey or a Sportsman that allows for different hatch dates.

 

[Squirlatheart]

Bummer, I only have one egg in there and have a chance to incubate 8 more... Guess I would have to get another incubator. I am at day 13 on this one little duck egg. It is a still incubator. I love the bottom of your thread. It is always so nice to see a wife so appreciated.

Thanks for your reply.

 

[roche477]

It is fine to do it. You will just have different hatch dates. It just gets a bit complicated when the others aren't turned anymore. People do it all the time and have great hatch rates. I am doing it right now and no problems!

Good luck!

 

[Squirlatheart]

So to get the eggs or not to get the eggs!!! That is the question. I just figured I could turn the turner off at 18 days and then manually turn the new ones. I won't get them until maybe day 17 for the other egg. So you think it would be disaster or no? I think I have heard of others doing it but obviously don't want to jeopardize any of them. Thanks so much for your help!!

 

[dun chick]

i have two small incubators. One is a genesis, other a hovabator forced air. When I have two hatces going on(which is often) I use the hfa for the hatcher. Any chance you can run to tsc and get yourself a lg for hatching? If not I say do it and see what happens.

 

[walkswithdog]

Staggered hatching isn't suggested for good results in small bators. That said, lots of folks manage it. It can affect results adversely. But you get used to managing...

Everything about hatching is about learning. All might not make it but then there never are any guarantees.

 

[Squirlatheart]

Thanks so much for the advice. I decided against it and to wait until this one hatches. There will be other eggs. Might as well try for the best results. Thanks again.