Good time to start hatching?

[RockyPhoenix]

When is a good time to start hatching eggs? I wanna start before march!!

 

[Buck Creek Chickens]

i start right after the first and go till june, but I've got a nice place to brood

 

[RockyPhoenix]

the first of JANUARY!?

 

[RockyPhoenix]

Like the first of January?

 

[kathyinmo]

Quote:
NOW!

 

[OverEggstended]

Look at it this way:

You need to keep them totally sheltered and with a heat lamp 24/7 for at least 3 weeks.
Then they need to be sheltered and at room temp and have a lamp available at night for the next 3.
Then they need to be kept at about room temp at night but should be able to go in an insulated coop.
Regardless... they do not lay for a good 20 weeks or so.

So...

Even if you get them now... there are no eggs until June-ish.

Since you need to probably keep them in at least the basement or garage for 6 weeks or so... may as well start now. At least you will not have to worry about frozen water this year!

I, myself, am eagerly awaiting Feb 1st so I can order! I do wish to start earlier... but the breeds I want in 15 chick requirements (I do not want 25 just yet!) are not on sale until then. And then I gotta wait for them to be shipped!

 

[RockyPhoenix]

i guess i forgot to mention that i use broody hens so they will keep the chicks warm...

 

[teddiliza]

I had eggs ready to sell but the gal can't get them till monday, so I put the 7 oldest ones in MY incubator. (Hey I only promised her 9) Hatched some at Christmas, and yes the garage is getting stinky!

 

[silkiechicken]

Quote:
In that case, you can only hatch when the broodies are willing.

 

[RockyPhoenix]

so it doesnt matter when i start them? i have a broody...