Hatching for the first time?

[Tayter93]

I have a flock of 10 Texas A&M quail (or recessive whites). They were sold to me as Texas A&M. Anywho.. I recently bought my first incubator and have been trying to get my temperature to stay regulated. I currently have it on a closed in patio that is well ventilated, but maybe to well ventilated as I'm having trouble keeping it regulated. Unfortunately this is the only option for where I can keep the incubator at the moment. I have about 20 quail eggs that are awaiting the incubator but I want to be sure I can keep it regulated.. what can I do to keep this thing where I need it to be so I can be sure to not kill my future hatchlings? The humidity is no problem, just the fluctuating temperature! Ugh! Please help.

 

[BReeder!]

Check out the "Quail Hatch Along" thread. Lot's of friendly people with info and experience.
Most home incubators are meant to be operated at a normal room temp between 60F-70F. I would move it into another room. The room doesn't need to be ventilated. It should be kept out of drafts and direct sunlight also. I keep mine on my bar. A table away from windows or doors would work or a kitchen counter away from sunlight from windows.

 

[Tayter93]

I will be sure to check that thead out! Well, unfortunately that's my problem. The location of the incubator currently is my only option. The room it's in typically stays right at 60-65 degrees. We are currently staying with my in-laws as our house is under restoration and they don't seem to be fond of my hatching antics and would like the incubator to stay "out of the house". Trust my if we were in our home it would be front and center where I could keep a very watchful eye on it lol!

 

[BReeder!]

I will be sure to check that thead out! Well, unfortunately that's my problem. The location of the incubator currently is my only option. The room it's in typically stays right at 60-65 degrees. We are currently staying with my in-laws as our house is under restoration and they don't seem to be fond of my hatching antics and would like the incubator to stay "out of the house". Trust my if we were in our home it would be front and center where I could keep a very watchful eye on it lol!

Would they let you put it in the basement if there is one? Or the garage?

 

[Tayter93]

No basement or garage.. lol. That is why I'm currently at my wit's end!

 

[fire370]

Sounds like it’s time for an executive decision and show MIL who wears the pants!

Incubator really needs to be in a stabile environment. Maybe wrapping it in a blanket and placing in a tub or box, without the lid of course.

 

[Tayter93]

Sounds like it’s time for an executive decision and show MIL who wears the pants!

Incubator really needs to be in a stabile environment. Maybe wrapping it in a blanket and placing in a tub or box, without the lid of course.

I actually did think about the box idea. Just to keep any kind of drafts off of it. I may try that and see if I can't get a more regulated temperature. Thanks!

 

[BReeder!]

Box sounds liker a good idea. I would turn a box sideways and face the opening out of the sun and wind/draft - towards a wall if needed with just enough room for you to get to it to add water and check on things.

 

[Tayter93]

Ok everyone! I finally got it figured out! I placed a towel around my incubator and wouldn't you know it the temperature is staying regulated right at about 99.8-100 degrees and humidity is running at about 45-47. I just placed 25 eggs! Wish us luck!!

 

[fire370]

Ok everyone! I finally got it figured out! I placed a towel around my incubator and wouldn't you know it the temperature is staying regulated right at about 99.8-100 degrees and humidity is running at about 45-47. I just placed 25 eggs! Wish us luck!!

Outstanding and good luck!