hatching in carton vs hatching laying on side

[NoSkiveez]

I'm getting ready to lock lien and was wondering if it would be better to letter them hatch in the egg crates or to lay them on their sides. I want the best possible outcome because these are special eggs that came from someone else.

 

[undergroundchickens]

Would love to read responses. I am worried about hatching chicks kicking the other eggs around like soccer balls.

 

[hollyandty]

Hey there undergroundchickens,
I have had successful hatchings in the carton and out. I prefer in the carton because it's easier to clean up and the chicks like to snuggle in the cups. I do take the shells out often.
Good luck and relax. Nature does a wonderful job.

 

[NoSkiveez]

I've never had an issue with chicks abusing eggs. I think its helped some hatch out easier. I've been having an issue with eggs drying out so I was hoping to avoid it.

 

[Mahonri]

I always hatch with them fat end up, but tilted slightly, in cut out cartons. I don't use cardboard cartons cuz it messes with the humidity.

 

[rebelcowboysnb]

I think it may help if your air sacks are on the big side, not having much moisture in the egg. If the air sack is a bit small I think it would hurt your hatch,

http://cmfarm.us/cartonhatch.html

 

[BlueBirdChick]

just mu opinion how do hens hatch their eggs? On the sides and they still hatch. I have two quail eggs on their side and I turn them daily well until tomorrow its lock down and they are still on the side and I can see the air pocket so... But do what you feel is most comfortable for you. Im going to order more hatching eggs and do the same.... Course I have a small incubator so even if I had a bigger on theyd be on the side. Most eggs are hatched that way well except when the dinosaurs laid theres lol

 

[Happy Chooks]

I've done both, and I like the cartons best. It's a lot less messy, and I had a better hatch, and the chicks popped out faster. They don't have to fight the movement of the egg moving around on it's side to get out.