Humidity Question - Dry Incubation

[matlock585]

I just hatched out some asst. cochin bantams I bought from Mrs. Pickens, a BYCer. I did no water at all the first 18 days and my humidity ran at 27-32. For the last 3 days I filled a small bowl under my egg rack with water and kept the humidity in the mid to lower 60's.
After candling at 7 days, I had to toss 4 that had no development and one with a blood ring. After candling at 14 days I had one more quitter. 8 eggs made it to lock down and all 8 hatched out on their own. Very healthy little chicks. I turned around and re set last night, and I plan to do everything the same way.

 

[BroosterSpringsteen]

During my last hatch using a hovabator, I followed the directions that came with it, and kept the humidity at around 55-60%. Less than half the chicks that were alive at lockdown hatched. The others appeared to have drowned in their shells. So this time I decided to try dry incubation. I'm about half way through, and while I don't know if it's going to help, I can say that keeping the red plugs out of the vents has helped tremendously in keeping my humidity stable. I've added no water, and it stays at 38-40%. With my last hatch it varied wildly. I had to add water all the time. I'm sure this is because of my room's humidity, but it's a relief not to have to even think about it. The air cells look better too...slightly bigger, more like the diagrams you find when you google "air cell development". So I'm hopeful.

 

[quintinp]

Quote:
cool i am in love with the dry incubation

 

[Reyvaughn]

Hey, Matlock! I am getting 44 eggs from Rosyln and it looks like another dozen+ off of eBay.

Now everyone's lock down humidity is varied, lol. See? Many different ways and opinions. I love this forum and the infinite wisdom on it. Even when it conflicts with another's thoughts and wisdom.