I just got an incubator yesterday, it's the little giant! I have it all set up and I went and bought the automatic egg turner to go with it today. This is my first hatching experience, and I am only going to do about 24 eggs first. I could use some pointers from the more experienced hatchers! One question I do have is since I am only going to do 24 can I leave a few of the rails on the turner off to accommodate the thermometer I have? Or do I have to leave them all in it?
All the advice you can give me will be much appreciated!!!!!
I am so excited to hatch me some new little baby chickies!
All the advice you can give me will be much appreciated!!!!!
Leave the rails in. It will allow nice even spacing for good air flow if you have a fan. Also if you start it up at least 8 hrs before its best to get humidity and temp right. Ive found its easier to add containers or sponges around the turner add water to rather than fill the area in the bottom. Remember air sack up if an egg is too rounded to tell the right side up candle and put the air sack end up. Humidity is more important than you think for a respectable hatch rate. Start with both red plugs in to reach optimal humidity. Only open the lid when needed. Opening it too much causes temp fluctuations. Make sure as the booklet tells you to position your incubator where its not in direct sunlight or drafty areas as it defiantly causes temp issues. Also keep it in a room that keeps a steady temp if the outside temp fluctuates 10 degrees it can throw you off. Dont get nervous if your temp jumps around within 3-4 degrees of 99-100 as long as its not there long..... hmmm what else..... research research research.... but most of all have fun.
