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