humidity ranges

[joneus]

There seems to be a lot of differing opinions on what the "correct" humidity range should be for incubation... I dont mean to open up a big discussion, but can I please get a general consensus? I've been keeping mine between 45 and 50%, but having read a couple of posts that say "35-40%"- now I'm a bit worried that its been too high.

 

[Griffin Nest]

i kept mine 50-60% and they hatched fine. they were shipped eggs. i got an 80% hatch rate.
maybe 45%-55% is good, because i did have a few drown in their eggs.

 

[gfcm]

I understand how you feel. I'm getting ready to go to lock down on my 1st hatch. And after reading so many conflicting opinions, I go back and forth. I'm inclined to think that lower is better though. It just seems more natural to me. I do believe it varies based on location of incubator and area we live in. I'm about to find out if what I've been doing works for me...!

 

[micayc]

I read someone had a great hatch with a dry run. seems funny to me but would be nice. too scared to try myself.

 

[Highlander]

I prefer to keep mine at around 35% for days 1-18 and then bump it to around 65% for lockdown. But what works for one doesn't necessarily work for another. It's all down to trial and error, your climate, room conditions and individual incubator.

 

[homesteadapps]

You can use our hatch chart if you like.

http://homesteadapps.com/app/free/hatchchart/hatchturnscheentry.php

Don't worry too much about the exact humidity or the exact temp -- these two things vary in the natural environment under the hen. This chart is actually recommended for a force air incubator so adjust temps accordingly per your instructions. We will be adding a forced or still air option to the calculator.


Keep good records and let the finished hatch tell you what needs changed. Early hatch = temp too high, Late hatch = temp too low.

Write down the temps on the chart each time you turn the eggs.

Personally, I try to keep the humidity just a little higher then the normal humidity in the house so it works out from 45 to 50%. I boost the humidity to above 60-80% the last couple of days before the hatch

Also, the temps range from 99 to 101 will hatch the eggs.

We usually get 100% hatch of the fertile eggs.