lozerface79
Songster
Also @Sally Sunshine i dont really get tags at all.
INCUBATING w/FRIENDS! w/Sally Sunshine Shipped Eggs No problem!
- Thread starter Sally Sunshine
- Start date
- Status
- Thread starter
- #72,442
HUGE CAT looks like a lion
Lol this was the wounded chick culprit...he's one of our babies lol
It was my fault, I had the door shut but didn't even think about him putting a paw underneath and snagging one!
Quote: ditto
Quote:
AGREE
PS.... I am currently on the thread listed below....
don't be afraid to join us for your hatch, or to learn or start a bator build!
I WISH I HAD THAT OPPORTUNITY! dont hesitate to pop on the thread and ask for help....
UPDATE:
I have pulled extremely helpful NOTES, LINKS &
Informational Post Links from the incubation thread
for EVERYONE'S convenience and will continue to put them HERE:
Incubation Notes, Images, Videos & Links
Including SHIPPED EGGS INCUBATION Techniques.
ww.facebook.com/SallySunshinePoultryBYC Member VIP Interview - Sally Sunshine
EMBRYO GROWTH & HATCH VIDEOS
Chicks Hatching videos post #67478
Embryonic Development, Day by Day click HERE
Video See Through eggshell to watch embryo development CLICK HERE
The Genius of Birds - Embryonic development CLICKHERE
DOUBLE YOLKERS NOT suggested but they can hatch with assistance videos post #46649
A crowing 1 DAY old chick: via Happy chooks post #49705
Expected Hatch Rate
Don’t count your chickens before they are hatched, or even after for that matter!
Shipped eggs have a MUCH lower hatch rate.
The percent hatchability in the commercial poultry industry ranges from 78-88%.
Choosing an incubator
Many different styles of incubators are available, most common are Styrofoam types found at most feed stores. These incubators hold more eggs and are usually less expensive, but they require more involvement in the hatching process. Egg turners are usually optional that can be added for convenience. There are also some great “hands free” incubators, commercial incubators as well as Simple Inexpensive Homemade Incubators. We make “Coolerbators” they work 100% better than our store bought incubator because it has less than .5 degree variance and we have very successful hatches in it!
The Coolerbator link and how to make it…
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/incubator-incubator
CABINET COOLER INCUBATOR
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/861788/gigantic-cabinet-cooler-incubator-how-we-did-it-and-test-run-ready-set-go
Helpful links/Info to help you decide on an incubator……. (Click to show)
LOCATION OF INCUBATOR
Locate your incubator in a room in which temperature is 70 degrees, free from drafts,Incubator Accessories & PARTS (Click to show)
away from windows and direct sunlight.
Did you know that the Incubating practice originated more than 2,500 years ago in Egypt and China. Methods of incubation were kept secret for a long time. In Europe attempts to use incubation are known from the 14th century. Owing to the imperfection of incubation apparatus (casks submerged in rotted manure, bakers’ ovens, and so on) and inadequate study of the conditions of incubation, it did not become common. Only since the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, with the invention of better incubators, has incubation become widely used in Europe and the USA; since the middle of the 20th century it has been the principal method of propagating poultry.
TIPS TRICKS for Incubators
ADD a LEGO to your dial of cheap styro bator to make minor adjustments! post #38133
Wrapping a bator for steadier temps post #25454
R Com 20 MAX Egg Turning Song video of turning post #25776
Hov-A-Bator GUIDE & which direction turns heat up and down! post #42178Adding Fans and Thermostats
IMPORTANCE OF FANS and HOW TO ADD ONE! post #58100
6" 240 cfm DUCT FAN for cabinets all sizes click HERE
THERMOSTATS/TEMP CONTROLLERS: *Also see Incubator Accessories and Parts Above
Temperature Controller Thermostat Control Switch Unit 1 Relay Output with Sensor CLICK HERE
STC-1000 Digital Temp.Controller w/Sensor AC110V Install/Wiring Diagrams post #63789
How a wafer Thermostat Works Click HERE & HERE
Hot water heater Thermostats, Must get drilled Watch Video HERE & See CoolerBATOR
HEATING ELEMENTS: *Also see Incubator Accessories and Parts Above
Aluminum PTC Heating Element Thermostat Heater Plates Click HERE & Ceramic Thermostatics Click HERE
Incubator incubator heat elements Click HERE
Homemade DIY Incubators (Click to show)
DIY Turners & Egg Trays & Hatching Baskets Mics (Click to show)
An amazingly informative article on how eggs are formed
And UNDERSTANDING REPRODUCTIVE Anatomy!
http://people.eku.edu/ritchisong/avianreproduction.html
Collection, WASHING & Storage of Eggs
Choose eggs that are of good size, not abnormally big or small. Do NOT set dirty, cracked, or porous eggs.
Clinical studies at the University of Arkansas have shown that if your going to set a dirty egg, set the dirty egg, DO NOT SAND, WASH OR WIPE dirty eggs as hatchability decreases with these practices!
Cuticula is the thin membrane that covers the whole eggshell that is made from the sticky fluid when laid which covers it and quickly dissolves due to carbondioxyde activity.
This membrane can be penetrated by gasses but functions as a kind defensive mechanism to prevent the entry of bacteria.
The washing and rubbing action also serves to force disease organisms through the pores of the shell. Place the eggs upright in an egg carton with the FAT, air cell end of the egg UP! Allow eggs to sit in a moderately cool, somewhat humid place for storage. Basements are great. Moderately cool means 55-65 degrees. Rotate your eggs a 3 times a day to keep the embryo from sticking. An easy way to turn all of the eggs at once is to place a thick book under one end of the carton, and later remove the book and put it under the other end of the carton, 3 times a day. Before adding eggs to the incubator always WARM eggs UP slowly to room temperature. IF THE EGGS ARE COLD Condensation can cause bacterial growth on the eggs! You can collect eggs up until 10 days or so, but after the 7th day lower hatch rates may result.
Stored eggs take longer to hatch (about one hour per day of storage).
It is important to ALWAYS wash your hands before handling your hatching eggs!
Omphalitis, yolk sack infection is caused by a bacterium that enters through the porous egg shell and easily kills embryo's and newly hatched chicks. Unfortunately, incubation conditions are ideal for breeding bacteria as well as incubating eggs. For more information on storing eggs refer to Recommendations for hatching egg handling and storage
If you MUST store longer please see this info HERE: (Click to show)
TIP:
Use your turners during storage!
SANITIZING/WASHING EGGS
Most commercial hatcheries sanitize their eggs. There are differences of opinions about how to sanitize eggs, if you feel they need to be. Some experts advocate washing and even lightly scrubbing eggs with soft brushes. Others feel that the most that should be done is dipping for a few seconds. Because of the varying opinions on sanitizing eggs, the following is an opinion of Brower and not necessarily a hard and fast recommendation. Accomplish sanitizing by dipping eggs in solution containing disinfectant that is just strong enough to kill bacteria and viruses. However, the disinfectant should not be so strong as to damage the embryos.COMPLETE INFO on WASHING/Sanitizing Eggs (Click to show)
The Cuticle removal
in hatching eggs as a means to reduce weight loss: Has actually been found to increase embryo weight during incubation and has direct relationship between rate of egg water loss, embryonic metabolism, and growth during incubation. But that warning of contamination is there if you dont follow cleaning procedures correctly. Chlorine treated eggs were not altered either. So with all that it is found that cuticle removal can be an effective method for increasing growth and egg weight loss.
Prior to EGG placement in the incubator,
place the eggs at a room temperature for several hours.
'Sweating' of eggs refers to the phenomenon of condensed water sitting on the egg shell surface. This occurs when cold eggs are suddenly exposed to a higher environmental temperature. The warm air with a certain moisture content cools down rapidly directly around the colder eggs. Since cold air contains less water than warm air, relative humidity will increase until the air is saturated. And at that moment, condensation will take place on the cool egg surface.
Egg Quality:
EGG Quality https://www.alltech.com/sites/default/files/alltech-egg-shell-quality-poster.pdf
Egg defects and CORRECTIVE steps, several pages filled with detailed information Click HERE
Optimum Egg Quality from your Flock: click HERE
BIRTH DEFECTS CONVERSATION AND INFO ON WORMERS!! post #25707 post #25706
Abstract DIPPING EGGS IN VITAMIN C AND COOLING EGGS DURING INCUBATION PERIOD post #33828
PURCHASING EGGS
HOW TO REQUEST AND SHIP EGGS Sally Sunshine Way
HOWTOREQUESTANDSHIPEGGSSallySunshineWay.docx 940k .docx file
Results Shipped SS Way post #63575 cree post #6321
REQUEST HOW YOU WANT YOUR eggs SHIPPED PEOPLE!!!! post #4964
Kristins horribly shipped eggs and hatch post #57321
DO you have to be NPIP certified to ship hatching eggs? States/Agencies Info see post #33884
Great IDEAS to find eggs CHEAP! post #775
Julian date on trader Joe eggs understanding it! http://www.fs.fed.us/fire/partners/fepp/julian-calendar.pdf post #5098
BYC Links for EGGS........
LOCAL BYC THREADS in the Where am I? Where are you Section! click HERE
HATCHING EGGS FOR SALE/TRADE BYC https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/36/chicken-hatching-eggs
YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO REIMBURSEMENT OF DAMAGED SHIPPED EGGS
SEE LINKS FOR INFO! https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/the-truth-about-insuring-hatching-eggs
http://www.jordan-farm.com/blog/
BIO SECURITY!
Risks associated with hatching eggs of chickens
http://www.slideshare.net/mahmoudghonim/handbook-of-poultry-diseases-2
http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/files/biosec/consult/draft-ra-hatching-eu-ca-usa-aus.pdf
Is it Fertile or Infertile?
To check the fertility, simply break an egg in a bowl.
Find the white spot on the yolk. If you do not, use a spoon to gently flip the yolk over until you find it.
Bulls eye look is fertile.
BOTH of these below ARE FERTILE!!
IS IT FERTILE?
Many images see post #43324
Managing Fertility click HERE
Several Reasons Why Your Hens May Stop Laying Eggs click HERE
Winter Blues w/the Roos, why are my eggs infertile ugh starting post #1986
Reproductive Physiology of the Hen post #40628
HOW long does a ROO SPERM REMAIN IN HEN post #40628
Polyspermy is typical in birds. Several sperm enter the germinal disc region post #40644
Example 57 out of 126 were declared fertile.
Hatch Rates...
Example 50 of the 57 fertile eggs hatched the % hatch=
Record Keeping
Accurate and detailed records are very important in incubation.
In addition to records of individual eggs it is important to keep records of the temperature and the humidity, so that trends in temperature and humidity may be detected early and can be corrected for next hatch.
INCUBATION CHARTS Dowloadable FORMS/RECORDS (Click to show)
INCUBATION RECORDS, SOFTWARE/APPS
INCUBATION RECORDS, SOFTWARE/APPS (Click to show)
SPREADSHEETS, APPS & DOWNLOADS (Click to show)
21 DAYS is just a baseline for hatching eggs.
See Chart below for details on the various species of fowl
Incubation Chart
Here is a free app...http://homesteadapps.com/app/free/hatchchart/hatchturnscheentry.php
The following table lists incubation requirements for various species of fowl.
Species
Incub. Period (days)
Temp (F.)¹
Do not turn
after
Chicken
21
100
18th day
Turkey
28
99
25th day
Duck
28
100
25th day
Muscovy Duck
35-37
100
31st day
Goose
28-34
99
25th day
Guinea Fowl
26-28
100
25th day
Pheasant
23-28
100
21st day
Peafowl
28-30
99
25th day
Bobwhite Quail
23-24
100
20th day
Coturnix Quail
17
100
15th day
Chukar
23-24
100
20th day
Grouse
25
100
22nd day
Pigeon
17
100
15th dayALL ABOUT QUAIL
¹ Measured at degrees F. in a forced-air incubator. For still-air incubators, add 2-3 degrees F.
² Measured as degrees F. using a wet-bulb thermometer. Use chart to convert to relative humidity.
All about QUAIL (Click to show)
DUCKS
All about DUCKS (Click to show)
GEESE
All about GEESE (Click to show)
PEAFOWL
All about PEAFOWL (Click to show)
GUINEA FOWL
All about GUINEA FOWL (Click to show)
TURKEY
All about Turkey (Click to show)
Ratite Production: Ostrich, Emu and Rhea
Ratite Production: Ostrich, Emu and Rhea (Click to show)
4 Areas of MOST IMPORTANCE
in Hatching EGGS
Ventilation (Oxygen), Temperature,
Humidity, Egg Turning/Positioning
VENTILATION (OXYGEN)
Ventilation is VERY important during the incubation process.Hatching at High Altitudes post #37908
O2 deprivation to day 10 of incubation followed by regular oxygen concentrations leads to stronger chicks post #33815Warning: Spoiler! (Click to show)
NEVER USE VENT holes as a means to Control HUMIDITY especially during HATCH DAYS!
TEMPERATURE
Never trust the thermometer that comes with the incubator, always check it.COMPLETE INFO ON INCUBATION TEMPERATURES (Click to show)
The thermometer that came with my incubator was off by 5 degrees.
That could mean life or death for your babies.
Did you know "The yolk is orange and on its surface is a visible germinal disc; radiating from this area is the more watery white
yolk, which is less dense. During turning, the yolk’s structure makes the part containing the germinal disc stay most dorsal (closest to the incubating bird) for heating"
With a Forced Air Incubator (fan model) you can get the best hatch rate by keeping the temperature at 99.5º F. throughout the entire incubation period. HOWEVER, when using a Still Air incubator(no fan) at 102º F. The reason for different temperatures is that with a fan model the circulating air warms all around the egg while still air temperatures are warmer at the top of the egg than at the bottom. The temperature is measured at the level where the embryos develop (at the top of the HORIZONTAL egg). NOTE:
If the eggs are in vertical position, elevate the thermometer just below the top of the egg. The temperature is measured at the level where the embryos develop (at the top of the egg). Never allow the thermometer to touch the eggs or incubator because incorrect readings can result.
A high temperature tends to produce early hatches. A consistently cooler temperature tends to increase incubation times and produce weakened chicks. In both cases the total chicks hatched will be reduced. Prepare your incubator and run it for several days before adding eggs, to be positive you are maintaining correct incubation temperature. NOTE: It is common that when adding eggs the temperature will drop but should come back up to correct temperature within an hour or two. Don’t rest the thermometer's bulb touching the eggs or the incubator. Incorrect readings will result. Did you know that 10/13 day old embryos begin to produce excess heat in the incubator? Most large commercial incubators will spend more time cooling than heating!
WHAT YOU CAN DO to save overheated or cold eggs!
What Temperatures Kill In An Incubator?
WHAT If the Power Goes Off?
What is the maximum and minimum range of temp I can go before killing the chicks? post #12473
ZONES OF COLD INJURY fro EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT post #36213
HAVE A PLAN IN CASE YOU LOOSE ELECTRIC ITS THE SEASON! see post #522
What to do when you find a HIGH TEMPS in Bator post #7061
HUMIDITY
The Air Bubble in the Egg
The average chicken egg has thousands of pores running through the shell allowing the embryo to exchange oxygen, carbon dioxide. and water. Soon after an egg is laid, a small air bubble or “air cell” forms in the large end of the egg from this water loss. Humidity levels in the incubator determine moisture evaporation during the 21 days of incubation and hatching. The air cell is crucial for the chick to break out of the egg shell at the end of the incubation period. The chick can drown if the air cell is too small or the chick may be retarded in growth if the air cell is too large. This is why maintaining the proper humidity is crucial. Slightly lower humidity levels are more likely to be less disastrous than slightly higher humidity levels. There are quite a few opinions on Humidity, but it is no set number.
Humidity is NOT A SET NUMBER, you need it YES!
However, you use it as a tool to "adjust" egg weight loss during incubation. We candle on days 7,10,14,18 To WATCH WEIGHT LOSS IN EVERY EGG! An EGG MUST lose approximately 13-14% of its weight during the incubation process. THIS IS YOUR GOAL!! You can monitor this by marking Air cells and also by weighing. Please refer to CANDLING section of this Article for more Air Cell info.
Size of air cell on day 7, 14, and 18 of incubation
WHY to MEASURE WEIGHT LOSS IN EGGS,
MEASURING PROCEDURES (HOW TO), HOW TO CALCULATE, and HOW to interpret RESULTS
http://www.aviagen.com/assets/Tech_Center/BB_Resources_Tools/AA_How_Tos/AAHowto1WaterLossEN13.pdf
I choose the easier method, keeping a close eye on air cell growth during incubation. You begin by ONLY adding a small amount of water and keep Humidity between 20%-30% and adjusting as you weigh or candle depending on moisture loss. IN SOME AREAS OF THE COUNTRY YOU MAY NOT NEED TO ADD ANY WATER! USE IT AS A TOOL FOR THE CORRECT WEIGHT LOSS IN THE EGG! So if your air cells look too large at each candle period you must add some humidity, too small air cell lower it, and if your weighing you adjust as needed. UNTIL DAY 18 LOCKDOWN,
then stop turning and raise humidity to 65-70%
UNDERSTANDING HUMIDITY
Views of Day 18 Candle.....
REMEMBER~
Surface area of water will increase humidity more so than depth!HYGROMETERS and HOW THEY WORK CALIBRATION (Click to show)
If you need a safe boost at lockdown just add a dampened sponge or rag.
A "ShamWoW" is great as a wick and can hang from the sides or across top of incubator.
How Does a Hygrometer Work?
KEEPING MOLD and BACTERIAL from growing in water WELLS during incubation post #1644
USING a aquarium pump to humidify incubator Begin post post #42512
TIPS n TRICKS to raising humidity in incubators post #42512
Setting Eggs & Turning
It is important to ALWAYS wash your hands before handling your hatching eggs!
It is likewise important to SANITIZE your incubator AND equipment before AND after use!
Omphalitis, yolk sack infection is caused by a bacterium that enters through the porous egg shell and easily kills embryo's and newly hatched chicks. Unfortunately, incubation conditions are ideal for breeding bacteria as well as incubating eggs.TURNING ITS IMPORTANT
TURN MORE THAN 3 times a day!! post #22178
Turning until day 18 post #51410
UNDERSTANDING the CAM ~chorio-allantoic membrane post #22178 post #22187 post #22229
COMPLETE INFO ON TURNING AND SETTING (Click to show)
SHIPPED EGGS
Shipped Eggs = Change Of Plans! post #53845
COMPLETE SHIPPED EGGS INCUBATION METHODS!!! CHANGE OF PLANS!! (Click to show)
Only add room temperature eggs to your incubator to prevent SWEATING. Sweating/Condensation weakens the egg's natural defense mechanisms, providing an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and penetrated through the shell pores and kill the embryo. Eggs can be laid on their sides or placed in turning tray with pointed end down/big air cell end up. For shipped eggs, please refer to SHIPPED EGGS section of this article.
Mark eggs, using a pencil, with an X on one side and an O on the other. Make sure to turn the eggs at least 3 times a day, or odd number of times. Turning by hand they should always be turned an odd amount of times and move them to a different part of the tray to protect them from temperature variation. You basically roll the eggs with your fingers/palm from X to O. It is important to NOT ROLL the eggs in the same direction every time. Improper rolling can cause the chalazae that holds the yolk in place to tear. Turning the egg prevents the embryo from touching and attaching to the membrane inside the egg. The most convenient way to turn eggs is to purchase an egg turner. Take extra precautions when turning eggs during the first week of incubation. The developing embryos have delicate blood vessels that rupture easily when severely jarred or shaken, thus killing the embryo.
When adding Eggs the temperature will immediately drop. DO NOT ADJUST THE THERMOSTAT, or risk accidentally cooking them. Wait 2/4 hours and if the temperature is still low, make a small adjustment, as small as you can. (Note: Small adjustments on the manual Styrofoam incubators make BIG changes!)
Shipped Eggs = Change Of Plans!
Shipped eggs have a MUCH lower hatch rate, even with experienced hatchers!
CANDLING & WEIGHING EGGS
Understanding the Air Cell
The average chicken egg has thousands of pores running through the shell allowing the embryo to exchange oxygen, carbon dioxide and water. Soon after an egg is laid, a small air bubble or “air cell” forms in the large end of the egg from water loss. Humidity levels in the incubator determine moisture evaporation during the 21 days of incubation and hatching. The air cell is crucial for the chick to break out of the egg shell at the end of the incubation period. The chick can drown if the air cell is too small or the chick may be retarded in growth if the air cell is too large. This is why maintaining the proper humidity is crucial. Slightly lower humidity levels are more likely to be less disastrous than slightly higher humidity levels.
MARKING and OBSERVING the size of the air cell is a way of checking for correct weight loss of the egg and is commonly used. However, this can be inaccurate due to the different, types, shapes, and ages of eggs. The protrusion of the embryo into the air cell also may effect observations. Again, it is the most common method for non-commercial hatchers. With experience you can adjust your humidity as needed by visual inspection of air cells. However, Weighing is the MOST accurate. If the incubation humidity is too low (very dry conditions), the air sac will be larger than normal and the humidity in the incubator should be increased to reduce the rate of water loss. If the air space is smaller than normal then the opposite applies.
HOW TO and All about WEIGHING EGGS (Click to show)
WEIGHING EGGS
Chicken eggs need to lose 13% . Weigh all the eggs on the first day, before you put them in the incubator and weigh again days 10, 14 & 18. Several formulas can be used to determine the rate of weight loss or overall per cent weight loss and to correct the humidity if the values are off. For accuracy, a digital scale should be used which can weigh in grams. Don't forget to subtract the weight of the container holding the eggs from the total weight when calculating the average egg weight. If you use a rack to incubate your eggs it is best to weigh the entire rack instead of each egg to get an average. If you are incubating SHIPPED eggs upright in a carton you will also weigh the entire carton so that the eggs are not disturbed.
COMPLETE Guide and IMAGES VIDEOS of CANDLES! (Click to show)
CANDLE EGGS
DAY 1
Always wash hands before handling eggs.
The shell of an egg is thin and opaque when held near a bright light. The easiest type of egg to candle is the white shelled egg and some of the hardest eggs to candle are dark brown eggs, like the Maran eggs pictured below.
You could try two or more flashlights to see into them!
Candle days are 1, 7, 14 & 18th day
You will need a Candler, bright light, LED flashlight or build your own Candler. Find Instructions HERE. https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/how-to-make-a-homemade-egg-candler-using-common-household-materials
Turn on your Candler and shut off the lights in the room so it is dark, evenings are best. Hold the flashlight/Candler like the image below and set the egg air cell/fat end down on your hand. This will prevent any light leakage from the flashlight. Your hand protects the egg from the hard surface of the light and helps more of the light to go through the egg.
CAUTION: Be very careful when you handle the egg
so you don't accidentally crack it or DROP it!
Slowly & gently rotate the egg until you can see inside the egg. On Day 1 candling you will mark air cells and check for cracked or porous eggs. Lightly mark the air cell with a pencil. Candle quickly if the light gets hot, you will kill the embryo. On Day 1 candle you will NOT see much inside the egg but you may have a glimpse of yolk moving as you gently rotate lightly colored eggs.
Chicken Embryo Development, views from the Inside AND Out. *Graphic Photos**
http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/03/chicken-embryo-development-views-from.html
CANDLE EGGS
DAY 7
When you Candle on day 7 there should be some light blood vessels surrounding it and you may see the embryo move. See above and below video. My favorite time to candle! Eggs that are clear should be re-candled at 10 days before tossing. If your not sure and it doesn’t smell leave it! If your egg is colored or a brown egg, it is harder to see through the shell, you may want to wait a few days and try again. Or find a better candler. You can see the large round yolk move inside the egg, this is NOT the embryo at day 7! Its just the yolk!
It IS ALIVE!!!! Video below day 7 Candle
CANDLE EGGS
DAY 14
It will begin to look pretty dark in there! Look for movement.
You should again see some good veining.
THIS is a video of a CANDLE at DAY 14!
CANDLE EGGS
DAY 18 & LOCKDOWN!
DAY 18 CANDLE IMAGES/VIDEOS: post #41176
FIVE VIDEOS show Draw Down and Internals post #44701
DAY 18 DIS CANDLES post #43401
MARKING AIR CELLS DAY 18
Candle day 18 is to determine growth, weigh, pencil mark air cell size and dispose bad eggs. It will look pretty dark and FULL in there! You may or may not see movement on this candle. Its ok if not, don’t panic! The chick may easily be resting! The embryo now occupies most of space within the egg, but NOT the air cell, the beak is against the inner shell membrane and ready to pierce it.
See how that air cell is beginning to dip more to one side and if you lay the egg down it will roll into the hatching position. I set my eggs with lowest dip in the aircell up. This position for hatching is good so the chick is able to turn into position and I can easily see my pips too! Setting eggs horizontal in the hatcher actually can aid a chick to hatch 1-2 hours earlier. (HOWEVER, shipped eggs that have had loose air cells or saddle air cells, should be hatched upright but tilted just enough so that the lowest dip is somewhat upright, so if they have fluid in the air cell it may prevent drowning).
AGAIN, I lay my eggs down LOWEST DIP of the AIR CELL UP! see below images, this is the normal and most likely hatching position and the chick will break through or Internally pip and externally pip in that probable area. See the image below with the x, x being lowest dip in air cell and probably pip area/s.
Chick normal hatching position, Where to place your X, Example of chick position/beak in shell
before internal pip drawing below: image below:
drawing below:
GOOD LOOKING MARKED AIR CELLS and SIZE: images below
WHY LAY HATCHING EGGS HORIZONTAL TOUCHING:
It is now known that the different embryos communicate with each other by a series of clicking sounds, the rate of clicking being the important feature. Ensuring the eggs on the hatching eggs are in contact with each other facilitates the synchronization of hatching where the eggs are incubated in a modern machine. This assists in reducing the time between when the first and last chicks hatch.
DRAW DOWN
BELOW IMAGES & DRAWINGS: Although air cells begin to take this dip/shift appearance slowly throughout the incubation due to weight loss, there is still a big DRAW DOWN just before internal pipping (IP) and you may or may not see this at day 18 candle! DRAW DOWN is when the embryo tucks and pip into the air cell, sometimes during you can see in the high part inside the back they pop up inside as well! good sign!!!
Video of candle below will show DRAW DOWN AND INTERNAL PIP!
THE INTERNAL PIP
Toward the end of standard chicken egg incubation, at approximately day 19, the embryo pierces the air sac membrane with its beak, this is called INTERNAL PIP/PIPPING or (IP) and then has a rest period which could be up to an 24 hour gap before EXTERNAL PIPPING (EP) where the chick pips a crack/rupture in the OUTER SHELL. (Dawes, 1981; Burton and Tullett, 1985),
THE EXTERNAL PIP
The external pip or crack will appear on the 20th Day on the outer shell. AFTER the embryo internally pipped the air sac and became a chick and breathed in air by piercing the air cell, it will rest again which could be up to an 24 hour gap before the final less that hour ZIP/ZIPPING to hatch out of the shell.
EXTERNAL PIP IMAGES will SLOWLY get larger during the rest stage!
A GOOD IDEA FOR SOME STYROFOAM INCUBATORS
COVER THE BOTTOM WIRE GRATE with A SMALLER TYPE OF SCREENING
CHICKS can get broken legs in these large sized wire grates
EXAMPLES Window SCREEN, or DOLLAR store rubber Shelf mat with the holes
see below:
Note: foam grip drawer mat on the wire bottom of incubator on day on day 18 lockdown. A cloth, crinoline, or paper towels could work as well. This ALSO protects the navel, the place where the abdomen closes after surrounding the remains of the yolk, from injury. It also makes cleaning the incubator easier. NO the wire on the incubator bottom should not injure or effect your chicks after they hatch. Dollar store baskets are great to keep hatching chicks separated by breed.
VIDEO : Early day 19 INTERNAL PIP
(shipped initially loose air cell, set after 12 hours and turned upright in the cabinet cooler incubator right from set)
Silky embryo in position for hatch and with internal pip (NOTE: NO EXTERNAL YET!)
PREPARE BROODER:
Prepare everything you need for them once they have hatched.
Now is the time to do final checks on brooder, heat lamp and feed.
See bottom of article for links on chick care.
Click on the link below for Brooder Ideas!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/homemade-chicken-brooder-designs-pictures
Rocking Egg Video!
Eggs can rock for several days before hatcing, but how exciting it is!
Understanding The Hatching Process
Between the 15th and 16th days, the chick orients itself so that its head is near the air cell at the large end of the egg. Not long before the chick is ready to attempt to make its way out of the shell its neck acquires a double bend so that its beak is under its right wing and pointed toward the air cell.
21 DAYS is just a baseline for hatching eggs.
Many chicks can take 23 - 25 days!
Some pip internally and fully hatch in hours while others will be 24 hours or more.
Egg movement! Eggs can “Rock n Roll” days before they are due to hatch!
The initiation of hatch occurs partially from the increased carbon dioxide level in the egg. This process causes the embryo to begin twitching it's muscles allowing the inner shell membrane to be punctured by the egg tooth. The chick then begins breathing the air in the air cell. Using its egg tooth, it pecks at the shell thousands of times and after a few hours the chick pips a small hole through the shell and begins to breathe air directly from the outside. After the chick has made a hole in the shell, it stops pipping for 8+ hours sometimes up to 24 hours and rests. During this time, it is acclimating its lungs.
In regards to opening and closing the bator to remove already hatch chicks; It is important to remember that chicks can go 3 days without food/water. It is better to wait for the remaining chicks to hatch to insure reducing the impact to unhatched pipping eggs.
But my new chick is running around in the bator knocking eggs around!
LET THEM GO! DO NOT OPEN THE INCUBATOR! They are fine!
TIMELINE OF A SILKIE CHICK HATCHING (Click to show)
When to assist?
Assisting a chick should be your LAST RESORT
PLEASE READ the following ARTICLE
BEFORE you try to assist a chick!
Step By Step Guide
to Assisted Hatching:
GROW GEL / FEED Newly hatched chick!
WHY I always add little soda caps full of grow gel when my first chick is fluffed in the incubator.
Does it do anything? I thought they had the yolk!
WHEN to start feeding CHICK after HATCH! post #4657
Chick Pro and Pre Biotic vit cheap! I swear by them! 1st & 2 wks then ACV see post #1409
Chick and Chicken Vitamins HAVE SOME ON HAND post #61039
Read PAGE 6 http://www.thepoultrysite.com/focus/contents/ceva/OnlineBulletins/ob_2007/Article-No12-May07.pdf
Dont forget to have Sav-A-ChickElectrolyte and Vitamin Supplement on hand! AND ITS CHEAP at TSC its Balanced electrolytes supplement for newly hatched and adult chickens, ducks, turkeys, and other domestic poultry. Fortified with vitamins A, D3, E, C, K, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12. Convenient, single-use packets each mix into one gallon of drinking water. Use during hot weather or other stress to support optimal hydration and bird health. JUST IN CASE you have a weak bird! OR You can add sugar to the water in the first couple of days.
Euthanasia
Dispatching chicks/Chickens see Post #44564
911- INCUBATION & CHICK EMERGENCIES!
Step by Step Guide to ASSISTED Hatching - Click HERE
NOPE she is not ready for you to assist yet! post #24835 now is she? post #24850
MALPOSITIONS /PIPS WRONG END are the first to pip and the last DIS after hatch post #19606
Malposition (pipped wrong end) chick most times will hatch! VIDEO post #22241
A WRONG END PIP IS BOTH INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL Pip! post #518454 VIDEO HATCHING post #54642
Casportspony Scovy malpositions assists post #43908
STUFF OOZING from pip begin post #19606
Images normal chick pip position post #19606
STUCK ZIPPING WHAT DO I DO? bottom of post #35770
YES a chick can chirp when its not pipped internally! post #20506
Heathers Call DUCK assist post #43902
It has a bump on its head! What The Heck Is A Vaulted Skull? post #46616
CHICKS Wet? Sticky? Stuck? Yellow Gel? What did I do Wrong? post #25379
Swollen abdomen? A WET chick? or infection post #24810
Eggtopsy possible Sticky chick post #35087
Navels, Umbilical, Yolk Sack and Abdomen Issues:
NAVELS She HATCHED! But what's with her butt? post #25012
Umbilical Gunk aka Strings post #25012
Help I have a BLEEDER! NAVEL looks like a Vagina? begin (this is gonna be a long one) post #5159
Yolk Sac problems:
Duckling was high risk for yolk sac infection, dipped it's umbilicus in chlorhexidine and gave it Baytril. post #35400 Chlorhexidine post #35432
- https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1052862/yolk-sac-problems-graphic-pictures#post_16341493
- https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1000154/peachick-necropsy-pictures-graphic
MY CHICK has yolk hanging and is dragging in the bator HELP! begin post #15672
Mushy Chick Disease YOLK SACK INFECTION: Mushy Chick Disease
THIS IS NOT PASTY BUTT its Umbilical post #4077
Look ok or not fully absorbed yolk?? Begin post #4578
Chick hatched with foot through yolk sack post #68442
Eggs UNHATCHED at end of Incubation
Step by Step Guide to ASSISTED Hatching - Click HERE
I HAVE EGGS LEFT UNHATCHED NOW WHAT? post #12001
How can you tell if they are dead post #25224 & see: Float Testing, Checking Egg Viability For Late Or Overdue Hatching
FLOAT TEST DONE and discussion begin post #3556 post #3573
EGGTOPSYS & REMINDERS IF YOU WANT US TO HELP SEE post #2140 post #42654 post #44923 post #45013 post #54834
Pipped but dead post #47432
Normal hatching position and the six recognized malpositions Images: click here
Trouble Shooting Failures with Egg Incubation
http://msucares.com/poultry/reproductions/trouble.html
Hatchability Problem Analysis http://ufdc.ufl.edu/UF00008570/00001
Troubleshootting Incubation http://anrcatalog.ucdavis.edu/pdf/8127.pdf
This is also a great pdf with pics: paste link in browser search: CLICK HERE
Eggtopsy: What happened to my egg? https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/363717/eggtopsy-what-happened-to-my-egg-graphic-pictures
Effects of Nutrition on Infertility, Embryo Mortality and Hatchability
POOR INCUBATION RESULTS post #20480
What Went Wrong During Incubation could it be the flock? or Incubation? post #1825
Signs of Deficiency in the Embryo & Poultry Vits Oz/Sal Diary Thread post #13719
Effects of nutrition on infertility, embryo mortality and hatchability. click Here
Some causes of EARLY CHICK MORTALITY post #17586 ~ http://www.poultry.uga.edu/extension/documents/French-Livability.pdf
Possible causes of deaths after day 18 post #57322
ORTHOPEDIC & POULTRY PODIATRY links:
Treatments for Leg Problems in Chickens & other Poultry
https://sites.google.com/a/poultrypedia.com/poultrypedia/poultry-podiatry
CURLY TOES Spraddle Leg TENDON Leg ISSUES post #42573
DUCKS can have Spraddle leg too! post #15184 post #15355
BONES STICKING OUT legs freom BATOR Mesh! COVER IT B4 Lockdown!! post #67787
RED HOCKS, HIGH HUMIDITY post #464
Wry Neck post #60013
OTHER Embryo, Egg, Chick Issues & Help
Chick Air Sac Rupture image of sacs post #54382
MY EGGS ARE COOKING TEMP TOO HIGH HELP post #14649
TEMP SPIKE DID I KILL THEM! read bottom post #8814
Hens dont always kick out bad eggs BUT GOOD ones too! post #18059
HOW do I know when my chick as turned the corner? post #15777
Homemade Electrolyte Recipe for weak/ill chicks post #3876 USING SPONGE WEDGES post #4473
Chick and Chicken Vitamins HAVE SOME ON HAND post #61039
"yawning" thing like a silent crow. Any ideas or should I not be so concerned? NOPE normal post #7522
Injured Chick stuck to momma hen sore broken wing post #24212 post #24748 post #24751
chick that has a larger than normal head and it's feet are not under it right post #24680 post #24687
Funky nodule on nostril on a chick Saris post #28995 post #31237
lump on the side of my chicken's neck? (its just a Full crop) HERE
READ ABOUT Little Crocket who spent her first 36 hours in a padded country crock dish post #1993 post #2062
Momma Hen Booted egg out of nest, SAVE The chick Video Assist A THANK you video from Maxine post #1864
What To do with those chicks hatched? post #2201
Discussion of chicks that just dont grow begin post #3626 & https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...not-grow-update-hes-found-a-forever-home/0_30
Partial Comb and Wattle Removal in chicks post #36708
HOW Sally Sunshine Euthanize chicks only for the strong at heart post #15697
Freaky looking chick with two crops, two vents four feet and three legs: post #41295 post #41297
Wry Neck post #60013
BROODY HENS
Encourage Hens to Hatch Eggs http://www.motherearthnews.com/homesteading-and-livestock/encourage-hens-to-hatch-eggs.aspx
SHOULD I move my BROODY mamma? discussion begins post #28264 post #28269
Broody Hens CLICK HERE
Letting Broody Hens Hatch & Raise Chicks CLICK HERE
Encouraging or Discouraging Broodiness CLICK HERE
Broody Hens versus Incubators CLICK HERE
"The Call of the Hen". virtual book https://archive.org/details/callhenscience00hogarich
SEXING CHICKS & CHICK IDENTIFICATION
SEXING CHICKS! post #15172
VENT SEXING http://naturalchickenkeeping.blogspot.com/2013/07/vent-sexing-chicks-sex-links-autosexing.html
Is my chicken a pullet or cockerel? CLICK HERE
LEG BANDS ideas for ID chicks: post #5609
Chickencanoes chick/chicken Identification practices post #25833
FEATHER SEXING LINKS http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/d/d0/d075bb42_13371_sexfaether.jpeg
FEATHER SEXING LINKS http://animalsciences.missouri.edu/reprod/ReproTech/Feathersex/sld006.htm
FEATHER SEXING LINKS post #7608
SEXING DOMINIQUE CHICKS click HERE and post #821
http://www.calvinroberts.us/index.php?_page=5
http://www.nantahala-farm.com/chicken-dominique-looks2-chick-pullet-cockerel-s.shtml
http://www.nantahala-farm.com/chicken-dominique-chicks-sex-link-s.shtml
Sight Sexing Barred Plymouth Rock Chicks at Hatch Click HERE & HERE
Sight Sexing Barred Plymouth Rock Chicks at Hatch click here
CHICK CARE
***DUCK, QUAIL, GOOSE, PEAFOWL, GUINEA, TURKEY Refer to individual sections below
How to evaluate Chicks after Hatch! post #56572
WHEN to start feeding CHICK after HATCH! post #4657
Chick Pro and Pre Biotic vit cheap! I swear by them! 1st & 2 wks then ACV see post #1409
Chick and Chicken Vitamins HAVE SOME ON HAND post #61039
Raising Baby Chicks CLICK HERE
New CHICKS Care Links & When to begin feeding post #22550
First 60 days of Raising baby Chicks click HERE
Socializing Baby chicks CLICK HERE
How to Spot Problems with Newly Hatched Chicks post #22550
More Problems of Newly Hatched Chicks http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-spot-problems-of-newly-hatched-chicks.html
How to Prevent Chicks from Getting Coccidiosis post #4779
Quick lesson on pasty butt post #4657
Homemade Electrolyte Recipe for weak/ill chicks post #3876 USING SPONGE WEDGES post #4473
CHICK TEMPERATURE Measurement vs. observation: recognizing the comfort status of day old chicks post #20918
HOW do I know when my chick as turned the corner? post #15777
BROODERS & HEATING
Homemade Brooders of BYC members CLICK HERE
The cheapest brooder/fast assemble Lowe's LG moving box. It's $1.39.
If you need more space, add more boxes and cut doorways between them. Put heat in one, Later in another and food in another.
Cheap quick Insulation brooder post #43909
Plastic Drum Type Brooders! post #68585
Setting Up the Brooder post #68242
Baby video monitor IN THE COOP or Brooder! post #31817
SIMPLE CHICK BROODER post #869 post #46388 post #46470
Pic of my Brooder and talk, wax paper between papertowel layers for simple roll up see begin pic post #3543
Brooder talk post #4358
Ur's Brooder post #5222 & addition post #34281addition to brooder post #31959
Canadachickens Brooder Build post #35489
Brooder/hospital cage: http://www.rainbowparrots.com/brooder.php
CLEANING THE BROODER COCCI COCCIDIA Survival post #39296
Brooder Lights
LEDs and CFLs are better for light (less electric cost)
Ceramic emitters. They last longer and if they break, they don't get glass all over. 25-250 watt. I use 150s.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/25W-250W-11...w-Plant-Lamp-Pet-Reptile-Heater-/231394987292
Smaller watt ceramic heat emitters if brooding indoors. They come in 50-300 watt sizes. Click HERE
Heating pads, Caves, Plates
http://www.premier1supplies.com/detail.php?prod_id=135875
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/956958/mama-heating-pad-in-the-brooder-picture-heavy-update
http://www.farmandfleet.com/product...feedsource=1&gclid=CKacxYbgjsoCFdgGgQodvBMOOw
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produ...mpid=04csegb&gclid=CM_5iMngjsoCFYYjgQodQQ8Dcg
https://www.enasco.com/product/C31504N
SWEETER HEATER post #3572
Heat PLATE post #27809
Premier one brooder plates https://www.premier1supplies.com/detail.php?prod_id=135875
Heating pad cave By Joey Ur! post #23974 post #24341 post #25309
Gotro7s heating pad post #46388
Mama Heatinig Pad UPDATED click here
Momma cave fer cheap https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/yes-you-certainly-can-brood-chicks-outdoors
For cold weather and lots of chicks, Ohio brooders. https://web.extension.illinois.edu/hkmw/downloads/46524.pdf in action post #26965
NOTE OF CAUTION ON those momma heater brooder things: post #8192
Here is a copy\paste of H101 for all those on desktop or that can't access it.... Don't even ask me how I managed to shuffle it
FINISHED ~
SANITIZE EQUIPMENT & PAT YOURSELF ON THE BACK!
Cleaning Incubator and Equipment
FUMIGATION OF HATCHING EGGS AND EQUIPMENT post #48689
CLEAN INCUBATOR BEFORE AND AFTER USE post #48689
A few Cool Videos!
THIS is a video of a CANDLE at DAY 10!
Everyone is MORE than WELCOME to come join the Incubation thread with us!
you can find us here...
INCUBATING w/FRIENDS! come hatch, learn, Chat, Meet new Friends!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...riends-come-hatch-learn-chat-meet-new-friends
Just pop in and say hello and what your plans are in the bator!
Experienced Hatchers also needed to help out with the growing demand for help with incubating!
Its not just for shipped eggs! Its awesome, most check daily and are there to help and support!
Disclaimer: Please note this information is offered as friendly advice only and, whilst I have made every effort to ensure it is accurate, I can not be held responsible if it proves not to be useful in your case!
Sally Sunshine
INCUBATING w/FRIENDS! come hatch, learn, Chat, Meet new Friends!
MY BYC INTERVIEW
Hatching 101 Guide ~ Guide to ASSISTED Hatching ~
CABINET COOLERBATOR ~ CoolerBATOR ~
Mushy Chick Disease ~ Duckling Care ~ "Nasty CKN Butt"~ Fermented Feed! ~ Processing Support
Pallet COOP~ Saloon COOP~ EASY 5gal Waterer~ PINTEREST Chickens~Gettin the Flock out of here~ CHICK LIGHT BOX
A little fun compliments of my friend Oz!
My new Avy Created by my friend cochins1088 from BYC,
How cool is that!
over here.
@Sally SunshineQuote:
The Cuticle removal
in hatching eggs as a means to reduce weight loss: Has actually been found to increase embryo weight during incubation and has direct relationship between rate of egg water loss, embryonic metabolism, and growth during incubation. But that warning of contamination is there if you dont follow cleaning procedures correctly. Chlorine treated eggs were not altered either. So with all that it is found that cuticle removal can be an effective method for increasing growth and egg weight loss.
Prior to EGG placement in the incubator,
place the eggs at a room temperature for several hours.
'Sweating' of eggs refers to the phenomenon of condensed water sitting on the egg shell surface. This occurs when cold eggs are suddenly exposed to a higher environmental temperature. The warm air with a certain moisture content cools down rapidly directly around the colder eggs. Since cold air contains less water than warm air, relative humidity will increase until the air is saturated. And at that moment, condensation will take place on the cool egg surface.
Egg Quality:
EGG Quality https://www.alltech.com/sites/default/files/alltech-egg-shell-quality-poster.pdf
Egg defects and CORRECTIVE steps, several pages filled with detailed information Click HERE
Optimum Egg Quality from your Flock: click HERE
BIRTH DEFECTS CONVERSATION AND INFO ON WORMERS!! post #25707 post #25706
Abstract DIPPING EGGS IN VITAMIN C AND COOLING EGGS DURING INCUBATION PERIOD post #33828
PURCHASING EGGS
HOW TO REQUEST AND SHIP EGGS Sally Sunshine Way
HOWTOREQUESTANDSHIPEGGSSallySunshineWay.docx 940k .docx file
Results Shipped SS Way post #63575 cree post #6321
REQUEST HOW YOU WANT YOUR eggs SHIPPED PEOPLE!!!! post #4964
Kristins horribly shipped eggs and hatch post #57321
DO you have to be NPIP certified to ship hatching eggs? States/Agencies Info see post #33884
Great IDEAS to find eggs CHEAP! post #775
Julian date on trader Joe eggs understanding it! http://www.fs.fed.us/fire/partners/fepp/julian-calendar.pdf post #5098
BYC Links for EGGS........
LOCAL BYC THREADS in the Where am I? Where are you Section! click HERE
HATCHING EGGS FOR SALE/TRADE BYC https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/36/chicken-hatching-eggs
YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO REIMBURSEMENT OF DAMAGED SHIPPED EGGS
SEE LINKS FOR INFO! https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/the-truth-about-insuring-hatching-eggs
http://www.jordan-farm.com/blog/
BIO SECURITY!
Risks associated with hatching eggs of chickens
http://www.slideshare.net/mahmoudghonim/handbook-of-poultry-diseases-2
http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/files/biosec/consult/draft-ra-hatching-eu-ca-usa-aus.pdf
Is it Fertile or Infertile?
To check the fertility, simply break an egg in a bowl.
Find the white spot on the yolk. If you do not, use a spoon to gently flip the yolk over until you find it.
Bulls eye look is fertile.
BOTH of these below ARE FERTILE!!
IS IT FERTILE?
Many images see post #43324
Managing Fertility click HERE
Several Reasons Why Your Hens May Stop Laying Eggs click HERE
Winter Blues w/the Roos, why are my eggs infertile ugh starting post #1986
Reproductive Physiology of the Hen post #40628
HOW long does a ROO SPERM REMAIN IN HEN post #40628
Polyspermy is typical in birds. Several sperm enter the germinal disc region post #40644
Example 57 out of 126 were declared fertile.Hatch Rates...
Example 50 of the 57 fertile eggs hatched the % hatch=
Record Keeping
Accurate and detailed records are very important in incubation.
In addition to records of individual eggs it is important to keep records of the temperature and the humidity, so that trends in temperature and humidity may be detected early and can be corrected for next hatch.
INCUBATION CHARTS Dowloadable FORMS/RECORDS (Click to show)
INCUBATION RECORDS, SOFTWARE/APPS
INCUBATION RECORDS, SOFTWARE/APPS (Click to show)
SPREADSHEETS, APPS & DOWNLOADS (Click to show)
21 DAYS is just a baseline for hatching eggs.
See Chart below for details on the various species of fowl
Incubation Chart
Here is a free app...http://homesteadapps.com/app/free/hatchchart/hatchturnscheentry.php
The following table lists incubation requirements for various species of fowl.
Species
Incub. Period (days)
Temp (F.)¹
Do not turn
after
Chicken
21
100
18th day
Turkey
28
99
25th day
Duck
28
100
25th day
Muscovy Duck
35-37
100
31st day
Goose
28-34
99
25th day
Guinea Fowl
26-28
100
25th day
Pheasant
23-28
100
21st day
Peafowl
28-30
99
25th day
Bobwhite Quail
23-24
100
20th day
Coturnix Quail
17
100
15th day
Chukar
23-24
100
20th day
Grouse
25
100
22nd day
Pigeon
17
100
15th dayALL ABOUT QUAIL
¹ Measured at degrees F. in a forced-air incubator. For still-air incubators, add 2-3 degrees F.
² Measured as degrees F. using a wet-bulb thermometer. Use chart to convert to relative humidity.
All about QUAIL (Click to show)
DUCKS
All about DUCKS (Click to show)
GEESE
All about GEESE (Click to show)
PEAFOWL
All about PEAFOWL (Click to show)
GUINEA FOWL
All about GUINEA FOWL (Click to show)
TURKEY
All about Turkey (Click to show)
Ratite Production: Ostrich, Emu and Rhea
Ratite Production: Ostrich, Emu and Rhea (Click to show)
4 Areas of MOST IMPORTANCE
in Hatching EGGS
Ventilation (Oxygen), Temperature,
Humidity, Egg Turning/Positioning
VENTILATION (OXYGEN)
Ventilation is VERY important during the incubation process.Hatching at High Altitudes post #37908
O2 deprivation to day 10 of incubation followed by regular oxygen concentrations leads to stronger chicks post #33815Warning: Spoiler! (Click to show)
NEVER USE VENT holes as a means to Control HUMIDITY especially during HATCH DAYS!
TEMPERATURE
Never trust the thermometer that comes with the incubator, always check it.COMPLETE INFO ON INCUBATION TEMPERATURES (Click to show)
The thermometer that came with my incubator was off by 5 degrees.
That could mean life or death for your babies.
Did you know "The yolk is orange and on its surface is a visible germinal disc; radiating from this area is the more watery white
yolk, which is less dense. During turning, the yolk’s structure makes the part containing the germinal disc stay most dorsal (closest to the incubating bird) for heating"
With a Forced Air Incubator (fan model) you can get the best hatch rate by keeping the temperature at 99.5º F. throughout the entire incubation period. HOWEVER, when using a Still Air incubator(no fan) at 102º F. The reason for different temperatures is that with a fan model the circulating air warms all around the egg while still air temperatures are warmer at the top of the egg than at the bottom. The temperature is measured at the level where the embryos develop (at the top of the HORIZONTAL egg). NOTE:
If the eggs are in vertical position, elevate the thermometer just below the top of the egg. The temperature is measured at the level where the embryos develop (at the top of the egg). Never allow the thermometer to touch the eggs or incubator because incorrect readings can result.
A high temperature tends to produce early hatches. A consistently cooler temperature tends to increase incubation times and produce weakened chicks. In both cases the total chicks hatched will be reduced. Prepare your incubator and run it for several days before adding eggs, to be positive you are maintaining correct incubation temperature. NOTE: It is common that when adding eggs the temperature will drop but should come back up to correct temperature within an hour or two. Don’t rest the thermometer's bulb touching the eggs or the incubator. Incorrect readings will result. Did you know that 10/13 day old embryos begin to produce excess heat in the incubator? Most large commercial incubators will spend more time cooling than heating!
WHAT YOU CAN DO to save overheated or cold eggs!
What Temperatures Kill In An Incubator?
WHAT If the Power Goes Off?
What is the maximum and minimum range of temp I can go before killing the chicks? post #12473
ZONES OF COLD INJURY fro EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT post #36213
HAVE A PLAN IN CASE YOU LOOSE ELECTRIC ITS THE SEASON! see post #522
What to do when you find a HIGH TEMPS in Bator post #7061
HUMIDITY
The Air Bubble in the Egg
The average chicken egg has thousands of pores running through the shell allowing the embryo to exchange oxygen, carbon dioxide. and water. Soon after an egg is laid, a small air bubble or “air cell” forms in the large end of the egg from this water loss. Humidity levels in the incubator determine moisture evaporation during the 21 days of incubation and hatching. The air cell is crucial for the chick to break out of the egg shell at the end of the incubation period. The chick can drown if the air cell is too small or the chick may be retarded in growth if the air cell is too large. This is why maintaining the proper humidity is crucial. Slightly lower humidity levels are more likely to be less disastrous than slightly higher humidity levels. There are quite a few opinions on Humidity, but it is no set number.
Humidity is NOT A SET NUMBER, you need it YES!
However, you use it as a tool to "adjust" egg weight loss during incubation. We candle on days 7,10,14,18 To WATCH WEIGHT LOSS IN EVERY EGG! An EGG MUST lose approximately 13-14% of its weight during the incubation process. THIS IS YOUR GOAL!! You can monitor this by marking Air cells and also by weighing. Please refer to CANDLING section of this Article for more Air Cell info.
Size of air cell on day 7, 14, and 18 of incubation
WHY to MEASURE WEIGHT LOSS IN EGGS,
MEASURING PROCEDURES (HOW TO), HOW TO CALCULATE, and HOW to interpret RESULTS
http://www.aviagen.com/assets/Tech_Center/BB_Resources_Tools/AA_How_Tos/AAHowto1WaterLossEN13.pdf
I choose the easier method, keeping a close eye on air cell growth during incubation. You begin by ONLY adding a small amount of water and keep Humidity between 20%-30% and adjusting as you weigh or candle depending on moisture loss. IN SOME AREAS OF THE COUNTRY YOU MAY NOT NEED TO ADD ANY WATER! USE IT AS A TOOL FOR THE CORRECT WEIGHT LOSS IN THE EGG! So if your air cells look too large at each candle period you must add some humidity, too small air cell lower it, and if your weighing you adjust as needed. UNTIL DAY 18 LOCKDOWN,
then stop turning and raise humidity to 65-70%
UNDERSTANDING HUMIDITY
Views of Day 18 Candle.....
REMEMBER~
Surface area of water will increase humidity more so than depth!HYGROMETERS and HOW THEY WORK CALIBRATION (Click to show)
If you need a safe boost at lockdown just add a dampened sponge or rag.
A "ShamWoW" is great as a wick and can hang from the sides or across top of incubator.
How Does a Hygrometer Work?
KEEPING MOLD and BACTERIAL from growing in water WELLS during incubation post #1644
USING a aquarium pump to humidify incubator Begin post post #42512
TIPS n TRICKS to raising humidity in incubators post #42512
Setting Eggs & Turning
It is important to ALWAYS wash your hands before handling your hatching eggs!
It is likewise important to SANITIZE your incubator AND equipment before AND after use!
Omphalitis, yolk sack infection is caused by a bacterium that enters through the porous egg shell and easily kills embryo's and newly hatched chicks. Unfortunately, incubation conditions are ideal for breeding bacteria as well as incubating eggs.TURNING ITS IMPORTANT
TURN MORE THAN 3 times a day!! post #22178
Turning until day 18 post #51410
UNDERSTANDING the CAM ~chorio-allantoic membrane post #22178 post #22187 post #22229
COMPLETE INFO ON TURNING AND SETTING (Click to show)
SHIPPED EGGS
Shipped Eggs = Change Of Plans! post #53845
COMPLETE SHIPPED EGGS INCUBATION METHODS!!! CHANGE OF PLANS!! (Click to show)
Only add room temperature eggs to your incubator to prevent SWEATING. Sweating/Condensation weakens the egg's natural defense mechanisms, providing an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and penetrated through the shell pores and kill the embryo. Eggs can be laid on their sides or placed in turning tray with pointed end down/big air cell end up. For shipped eggs, please refer to SHIPPED EGGS section of this article.
Mark eggs, using a pencil, with an X on one side and an O on the other. Make sure to turn the eggs at least 3 times a day, or odd number of times. Turning by hand they should always be turned an odd amount of times and move them to a different part of the tray to protect them from temperature variation. You basically roll the eggs with your fingers/palm from X to O. It is important to NOT ROLL the eggs in the same direction every time. Improper rolling can cause the chalazae that holds the yolk in place to tear. Turning the egg prevents the embryo from touching and attaching to the membrane inside the egg. The most convenient way to turn eggs is to purchase an egg turner. Take extra precautions when turning eggs during the first week of incubation. The developing embryos have delicate blood vessels that rupture easily when severely jarred or shaken, thus killing the embryo.
When adding Eggs the temperature will immediately drop. DO NOT ADJUST THE THERMOSTAT, or risk accidentally cooking them. Wait 2/4 hours and if the temperature is still low, make a small adjustment, as small as you can. (Note: Small adjustments on the manual Styrofoam incubators make BIG changes!)
Shipped Eggs = Change Of Plans!
Shipped eggs have a MUCH lower hatch rate, even with experienced hatchers!
CANDLING & WEIGHING EGGS
Understanding the Air Cell
The average chicken egg has thousands of pores running through the shell allowing the embryo to exchange oxygen, carbon dioxide and water. Soon after an egg is laid, a small air bubble or “air cell” forms in the large end of the egg from water loss. Humidity levels in the incubator determine moisture evaporation during the 21 days of incubation and hatching. The air cell is crucial for the chick to break out of the egg shell at the end of the incubation period. The chick can drown if the air cell is too small or the chick may be retarded in growth if the air cell is too large. This is why maintaining the proper humidity is crucial. Slightly lower humidity levels are more likely to be less disastrous than slightly higher humidity levels.
MARKING and OBSERVING the size of the air cell is a way of checking for correct weight loss of the egg and is commonly used. However, this can be inaccurate due to the different, types, shapes, and ages of eggs. The protrusion of the embryo into the air cell also may effect observations. Again, it is the most common method for non-commercial hatchers. With experience you can adjust your humidity as needed by visual inspection of air cells. However, Weighing is the MOST accurate. If the incubation humidity is too low (very dry conditions), the air sac will be larger than normal and the humidity in the incubator should be increased to reduce the rate of water loss. If the air space is smaller than normal then the opposite applies.
Track the air sac with pencil tracings when you candle,
On the 7, 14 & 18th days
CANDLING EGGS
HOW TO CANDLE EGGS post #40826Candle IMAGES & Videos ALL Days (Click to show)
REASONS to NOT candle SO MUCH! http://blog.mypetchicken.com/2013/03/31/5-reasons-why-egg-candling/
BRINSEA HOW TO CANDLE
Candlers/ FLASHLIGHTS TO CANDLE DARK EGGS & Innovations SUGGESTIONS post #38996
Strombergs CANDLERS (basic models 4 hobbyist, high intensity models 4 professionals click HERE
Flashlights - try more than one! post #1689 BEGIN post #2702 post #18179
Saris Toilet Paper addition to flashlight post #40251
Clears at CANDLE are not always infertile! post #1825
SHARPIES on EGGS? Sure! post #10857 & the age old question Can you write on a hatchin egg with sharpie. answer is yes with proof
Casportspony Sharpie Eggs post #57508
HOW TO and All about WEIGHING EGGS (Click to show)
WEIGHING EGGS
Chicken eggs need to lose 13% . Weigh all the eggs on the first day, before you put them in the incubator and weigh again days 10, 14 & 18. Several formulas can be used to determine the rate of weight loss or overall per cent weight loss and to correct the humidity if the values are off. For accuracy, a digital scale should be used which can weigh in grams. Don't forget to subtract the weight of the container holding the eggs from the total weight when calculating the average egg weight. If you use a rack to incubate your eggs it is best to weigh the entire rack instead of each egg to get an average. If you are incubating SHIPPED eggs upright in a carton you will also weigh the entire carton so that the eggs are not disturbed.
COMPLETE Guide and IMAGES VIDEOS of CANDLES! (Click to show)
CANDLE EGGS
DAY 1
Always wash hands before handling eggs.
The shell of an egg is thin and opaque when held near a bright light. The easiest type of egg to candle is the white shelled egg and some of the hardest eggs to candle are dark brown eggs, like the Maran eggs pictured below.
You could try two or more flashlights to see into them!
Candle days are 1, 7, 14 & 18th day
You will need a Candler, bright light, LED flashlight or build your own Candler. Find Instructions HERE. https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/how-to-make-a-homemade-egg-candler-using-common-household-materials
Turn on your Candler and shut off the lights in the room so it is dark, evenings are best. Hold the flashlight/Candler like the image below and set the egg air cell/fat end down on your hand. This will prevent any light leakage from the flashlight. Your hand protects the egg from the hard surface of the light and helps more of the light to go through the egg.
CAUTION: Be very careful when you handle the egg
so you don't accidentally crack it or DROP it!
Slowly & gently rotate the egg until you can see inside the egg. On Day 1 candling you will mark air cells and check for cracked or porous eggs. Lightly mark the air cell with a pencil. Candle quickly if the light gets hot, you will kill the embryo. On Day 1 candle you will NOT see much inside the egg but you may have a glimpse of yolk moving as you gently rotate lightly colored eggs.
Chicken Embryo Development, views from the Inside AND Out. *Graphic Photos**
http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/03/chicken-embryo-development-views-from.html
CANDLE EGGS
DAY 7
When you Candle on day 7 there should be some light blood vessels surrounding it and you may see the embryo move. See above and below video. My favorite time to candle! Eggs that are clear should be re-candled at 10 days before tossing. If your not sure and it doesn’t smell leave it! If your egg is colored or a brown egg, it is harder to see through the shell, you may want to wait a few days and try again. Or find a better candler. You can see the large round yolk move inside the egg, this is NOT the embryo at day 7! Its just the yolk!
It IS ALIVE!!!! Video below day 7 Candle
CANDLE EGGS
DAY 14
It will begin to look pretty dark in there! Look for movement.
You should again see some good veining.
THIS is a video of a CANDLE at DAY 14!
CANDLE EGGS
DAY 18 & LOCKDOWN!
DAY 18 CANDLE IMAGES/VIDEOS: post #41176
FIVE VIDEOS show Draw Down and Internals post #44701
DAY 18 DIS CANDLES post #43401
STUCK Examples AT ZIP stage!!!! (Click to show)
A REALY GOOD READ
on what that chick is doing in that egg at this time!
Development of motor patterns in avian embryos:
hatching behavior http://www.int-ornith-union.org/files/proceedings/durban/Symposium/S46/S46.1.htm
A GOOD IDEA FOR SOME STYROFOAM INCUBATORS
COVER THE BOTTOM WIRE GRATE with A SMALLER TYPE OF SCREENING
CHICKS can get broken legs in these large sized wire grates
EXAMPLES Window SCREEN, or DOLLAR store rubber Shelf mat with the holes
see below:
Note: foam grip drawer mat on the wire bottom of incubator on day on day 18 lockdown. A cloth, crinoline, or paper towels could work as well. This ALSO protects the navel, the place where the abdomen closes after surrounding the remains of the yolk, from injury. It also makes cleaning the incubator easier. NO the wire on the incubator bottom should not injure or effect your chicks after they hatch. Dollar store baskets are great to keep hatching chicks separated by breed.
VIDEO : Early day 19 INTERNAL PIP
(shipped initially loose air cell, set after 12 hours and turned upright in the cabinet cooler incubator right from set)
Silky embryo in position for hatch and with internal pip (NOTE: NO EXTERNAL YET!)
PREPARE BROODER:
Prepare everything you need for them once they have hatched.
Now is the time to do final checks on brooder, heat lamp and feed.
See bottom of article for links on chick care.
Click on the link below for Brooder Ideas!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/homemade-chicken-brooder-designs-pictures
Rocking Egg Video!
Eggs can rock for several days before hatcing, but how exciting it is!
Understanding The Hatching Process
Between the 15th and 16th days, the chick orients itself so that its head is near the air cell at the large end of the egg. Not long before the chick is ready to attempt to make its way out of the shell its neck acquires a double bend so that its beak is under its right wing and pointed toward the air cell.
21 DAYS is just a baseline for hatching eggs.
Many chicks can take 23 - 25 days!
Some pip internally and fully hatch in hours while others will be 24 hours or more.
Egg movement! Eggs can “Rock n Roll” days before they are due to hatch!
The initiation of hatch occurs partially from the increased carbon dioxide level in the egg. This process causes the embryo to begin twitching it's muscles allowing the inner shell membrane to be punctured by the egg tooth. The chick then begins breathing the air in the air cell. Using its egg tooth, it pecks at the shell thousands of times and after a few hours the chick pips a small hole through the shell and begins to breathe air directly from the outside. After the chick has made a hole in the shell, it stops pipping for 8+ hours sometimes up to 24 hours and rests. During this time, it is acclimating its lungs.
In regards to opening and closing the bator to remove already hatch chicks; It is important to remember that chicks can go 3 days without food/water. It is better to wait for the remaining chicks to hatch to insure reducing the impact to unhatched pipping eggs.
But my new chick is running around in the bator knocking eggs around!
LET THEM GO! DO NOT OPEN THE INCUBATOR! They are fine!
TIMELINE OF A SILKIE CHICK HATCHING (Click to show)
When to assist?
Assisting a chick should be your LAST RESORT
PLEASE READ the following ARTICLE
BEFORE you try to assist a chick!
Step By Step Guide
to Assisted Hatching:
GROW GEL / FEED Newly hatched chick!
WHY I always add little soda caps full of grow gel when my first chick is fluffed in the incubator.
Does it do anything? I thought they had the yolk!
WHEN to start feeding CHICK after HATCH! post #4657
Chick Pro and Pre Biotic vit cheap! I swear by them! 1st & 2 wks then ACV see post #1409
Chick and Chicken Vitamins HAVE SOME ON HAND post #61039
Read PAGE 6 http://www.thepoultrysite.com/focus/contents/ceva/OnlineBulletins/ob_2007/Article-No12-May07.pdf
DIP THE BEAK OF THE CHICK IN THE WATER BEFORE YOU TURN IT LOOSE in the brooder. A taste of water right away helps them to find more water soon. If your chicks are at all stressed, add about 3 tablespoons of brown or table sugar to each quart of water for extra energy. Most baby bird loss is caused because the bird doesn't start to eat or drink. Never let your bird run out of water. http://odysseyranch.com/Chick Care Tips.html
Homemade Electrolyte Recipe for weak/ill chicks
2 C. Water
2 TBL. Brown Sugar, honey or molasses
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp. Baking Soda
Mix until all dry ingredients dissolve & Keep refrigerated
You could also use electrolyte drinks Gatorade or Pedialyte, or
3 drops of POLYVISOL (liquid childrens A-B-D vitamins)
Slowly drip along inner edge of lower beak.
Dont forget to have Sav-A-ChickElectrolyte and Vitamin Supplement on hand! AND ITS CHEAP at TSC its Balanced electrolytes supplement for newly hatched and adult chickens, ducks, turkeys, and other domestic poultry. Fortified with vitamins A, D3, E, C, K, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12. Convenient, single-use packets each mix into one gallon of drinking water. Use during hot weather or other stress to support optimal hydration and bird health. JUST IN CASE you have a weak bird! OR You can add sugar to the water in the first couple of days.
Euthanasia
Dispatching chicks/Chickens see Post #44564
911- INCUBATION & CHICK EMERGENCIES!
Step by Step Guide to ASSISTED Hatching - Click HERE
NOPE she is not ready for you to assist yet! post #24835 now is she? post #24850
MALPOSITIONS /PIPS WRONG END are the first to pip and the last DIS after hatch post #19606
Malposition (pipped wrong end) chick most times will hatch! VIDEO post #22241
A WRONG END PIP IS BOTH INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL Pip! post #518454 VIDEO HATCHING post #54642
Casportspony Scovy malpositions assists post #43908
STUFF OOZING from pip begin post #19606
Images normal chick pip position post #19606
STUCK ZIPPING WHAT DO I DO? bottom of post #35770
YES a chick can chirp when its not pipped internally! post #20506
Heathers Call DUCK assist post #43902
It has a bump on its head! What The Heck Is A Vaulted Skull? post #46616
CHICKS Wet? Sticky? Stuck? Yellow Gel? What did I do Wrong? post #25379
Swollen abdomen? A WET chick? or infection post #24810
Eggtopsy possible Sticky chick post #35087
Navels, Umbilical, Yolk Sack and Abdomen Issues:
NAVELS She HATCHED! But what's with her butt? post #25012
Umbilical Gunk aka Strings post #25012
Help I have a BLEEDER! NAVEL looks like a Vagina? begin (this is gonna be a long one) post #5159
Yolk Sac problems:
Duckling was high risk for yolk sac infection, dipped it's umbilicus in chlorhexidine and gave it Baytril. post #35400 Chlorhexidine post #35432
- https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1052862/yolk-sac-problems-graphic-pictures#post_16341493
- https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1000154/peachick-necropsy-pictures-graphic
MY CHICK has yolk hanging and is dragging in the bator HELP! begin post #15672
Mushy Chick Disease YOLK SACK INFECTION: Mushy Chick Disease
THIS IS NOT PASTY BUTT its Umbilical post #4077
Look ok or not fully absorbed yolk?? Begin post #4578
Chick hatched with foot through yolk sack post #68442
Eggs UNHATCHED at end of Incubation
Step by Step Guide to ASSISTED Hatching - Click HERE
I HAVE EGGS LEFT UNHATCHED NOW WHAT? post #12001
How can you tell if they are dead post #25224 & see: Float Testing, Checking Egg Viability For Late Or Overdue Hatching
FLOAT TEST DONE and discussion begin post #3556 post #3573
EGGTOPSYS & REMINDERS IF YOU WANT US TO HELP SEE post #2140 post #42654 post #44923 post #45013 post #54834
Pipped but dead post #47432
Normal hatching position and the six recognized malpositions Images: click here
Trouble Shooting Failures with Egg Incubation
http://msucares.com/poultry/reproductions/trouble.html
Hatchability Problem Analysis http://ufdc.ufl.edu/UF00008570/00001
Troubleshootting Incubation http://anrcatalog.ucdavis.edu/pdf/8127.pdf
This is also a great pdf with pics: paste link in browser search: CLICK HERE
Eggtopsy: What happened to my egg? https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/363717/eggtopsy-what-happened-to-my-egg-graphic-pictures
Effects of Nutrition on Infertility, Embryo Mortality and Hatchability
POOR INCUBATION RESULTS post #20480
What Went Wrong During Incubation could it be the flock? or Incubation? post #1825
Signs of Deficiency in the Embryo & Poultry Vits Oz/Sal Diary Thread post #13719
Effects of nutrition on infertility, embryo mortality and hatchability. click Here
Some causes of EARLY CHICK MORTALITY post #17586 ~ http://www.poultry.uga.edu/extension/documents/French-Livability.pdf
Possible causes of deaths after day 18 post #57322
ORTHOPEDIC & POULTRY PODIATRY links:
Treatments for Leg Problems in Chickens & other Poultry
https://sites.google.com/a/poultrypedia.com/poultrypedia/poultry-podiatry
CURLY TOES Spraddle Leg TENDON Leg ISSUES post #42573
DUCKS can have Spraddle leg too! post #15184 post #15355
BONES STICKING OUT legs freom BATOR Mesh! COVER IT B4 Lockdown!! post #67787
RED HOCKS, HIGH HUMIDITY post #464
Wry Neck post #60013
OTHER Embryo, Egg, Chick Issues & Help
Chick Air Sac Rupture image of sacs post #54382
MY EGGS ARE COOKING TEMP TOO HIGH HELP post #14649
TEMP SPIKE DID I KILL THEM! read bottom post #8814
Hens dont always kick out bad eggs BUT GOOD ones too! post #18059
HOW do I know when my chick as turned the corner? post #15777
Homemade Electrolyte Recipe for weak/ill chicks post #3876 USING SPONGE WEDGES post #4473
Chick and Chicken Vitamins HAVE SOME ON HAND post #61039
"yawning" thing like a silent crow. Any ideas or should I not be so concerned? NOPE normal post #7522
Injured Chick stuck to momma hen sore broken wing post #24212 post #24748 post #24751
chick that has a larger than normal head and it's feet are not under it right post #24680 post #24687
Funky nodule on nostril on a chick Saris post #28995 post #31237
lump on the side of my chicken's neck? (its just a Full crop) HERE
READ ABOUT Little Crocket who spent her first 36 hours in a padded country crock dish post #1993 post #2062
Momma Hen Booted egg out of nest, SAVE The chick Video Assist A THANK you video from Maxine post #1864
What To do with those chicks hatched? post #2201
Discussion of chicks that just dont grow begin post #3626 & https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...not-grow-update-hes-found-a-forever-home/0_30
Partial Comb and Wattle Removal in chicks post #36708
HOW Sally Sunshine Euthanize chicks only for the strong at heart post #15697
Freaky looking chick with two crops, two vents four feet and three legs: post #41295 post #41297
Wry Neck post #60013
BROODY HENS
Encourage Hens to Hatch Eggs http://www.motherearthnews.com/homesteading-and-livestock/encourage-hens-to-hatch-eggs.aspx
SHOULD I move my BROODY mamma? discussion begins post #28264 post #28269
Broody Hens CLICK HERE
Letting Broody Hens Hatch & Raise Chicks CLICK HERE
Encouraging or Discouraging Broodiness CLICK HERE
Broody Hens versus Incubators CLICK HERE
"The Call of the Hen". virtual book https://archive.org/details/callhenscience00hogarich
SEXING CHICKS & CHICK IDENTIFICATION
SEXING CHICKS! post #15172
VENT SEXING http://naturalchickenkeeping.blogspot.com/2013/07/vent-sexing-chicks-sex-links-autosexing.html
Is my chicken a pullet or cockerel? CLICK HERE
LEG BANDS ideas for ID chicks: post #5609
Chickencanoes chick/chicken Identification practices post #25833
FEATHER SEXING LINKS http://cdn.backyardchickens.com/d/d0/d075bb42_13371_sexfaether.jpeg
FEATHER SEXING LINKS http://animalsciences.missouri.edu/reprod/ReproTech/Feathersex/sld006.htm
FEATHER SEXING LINKS post #7608
SEXING DOMINIQUE CHICKS click HERE and post #821
http://www.calvinroberts.us/index.php?_page=5
http://www.nantahala-farm.com/chicken-dominique-looks2-chick-pullet-cockerel-s.shtml
http://www.nantahala-farm.com/chicken-dominique-chicks-sex-link-s.shtml
Sight Sexing Barred Plymouth Rock Chicks at Hatch Click HERE & HERE
Sight Sexing Barred Plymouth Rock Chicks at Hatch click here
CHICK CARE
***DUCK, QUAIL, GOOSE, PEAFOWL, GUINEA, TURKEY Refer to individual sections below
How to evaluate Chicks after Hatch! post #56572
WHEN to start feeding CHICK after HATCH! post #4657
Chick Pro and Pre Biotic vit cheap! I swear by them! 1st & 2 wks then ACV see post #1409
Chick and Chicken Vitamins HAVE SOME ON HAND post #61039
Raising Baby Chicks CLICK HERE
New CHICKS Care Links & When to begin feeding post #22550
First 60 days of Raising baby Chicks click HERE
Socializing Baby chicks CLICK HERE
How to Spot Problems with Newly Hatched Chicks post #22550
More Problems of Newly Hatched Chicks http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-spot-problems-of-newly-hatched-chicks.html
How to Prevent Chicks from Getting Coccidiosis post #4779
Quick lesson on pasty butt post #4657
Homemade Electrolyte Recipe for weak/ill chicks post #3876 USING SPONGE WEDGES post #4473
CHICK TEMPERATURE Measurement vs. observation: recognizing the comfort status of day old chicks post #20918
HOW do I know when my chick as turned the corner? post #15777
BROODERS & HEATING
Homemade Brooders of BYC members CLICK HERE
The cheapest brooder/fast assemble Lowe's LG moving box. It's $1.39.
If you need more space, add more boxes and cut doorways between them. Put heat in one, Later in another and food in another.
Cheap quick Insulation brooder post #43909
Plastic Drum Type Brooders! post #68585
Setting Up the Brooder post #68242
Baby video monitor IN THE COOP or Brooder! post #31817
SIMPLE CHICK BROODER post #869 post #46388 post #46470
Pic of my Brooder and talk, wax paper between papertowel layers for simple roll up see begin pic post #3543
Brooder talk post #4358
Ur's Brooder post #5222 & addition post #34281addition to brooder post #31959
Canadachickens Brooder Build post #35489
Brooder/hospital cage: http://www.rainbowparrots.com/brooder.php
CLEANING THE BROODER COCCI COCCIDIA Survival post #39296
Brooder Lights
LEDs and CFLs are better for light (less electric cost)
Ceramic emitters. They last longer and if they break, they don't get glass all over. 25-250 watt. I use 150s.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/25W-250W-11...w-Plant-Lamp-Pet-Reptile-Heater-/231394987292
Smaller watt ceramic heat emitters if brooding indoors. They come in 50-300 watt sizes. Click HERE
Heating pads, Caves, Plates
http://www.premier1supplies.com/detail.php?prod_id=135875
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/956958/mama-heating-pad-in-the-brooder-picture-heavy-update
http://www.farmandfleet.com/product...feedsource=1&gclid=CKacxYbgjsoCFdgGgQodvBMOOw
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produ...mpid=04csegb&gclid=CM_5iMngjsoCFYYjgQodQQ8Dcg
https://www.enasco.com/product/C31504N
SWEETER HEATER post #3572
Heat PLATE post #27809
Premier one brooder plates https://www.premier1supplies.com/detail.php?prod_id=135875
Heating pad cave By Joey Ur! post #23974 post #24341 post #25309
Gotro7s heating pad post #46388
Mama Heatinig Pad UPDATED click here
Momma cave fer cheap https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/yes-you-certainly-can-brood-chicks-outdoors
For cold weather and lots of chicks, Ohio brooders. https://web.extension.illinois.edu/hkmw/downloads/46524.pdf in action post #26965
NOTE OF CAUTION ON those momma heater brooder things: post #8192
FINISHED ~
SANITIZE EQUIPMENT & PAT YOURSELF ON THE BACK!
Cleaning Incubator and Equipment
FUMIGATION OF HATCHING EGGS AND EQUIPMENT post #48689
CLEAN INCUBATOR BEFORE AND AFTER USE post #48689
A few Cool Videos!
THIS is a video of a CANDLE at DAY 10!
Everyone is MORE than WELCOME to come join the Incubation thread with us!
you can find us here...
INCUBATING w/FRIENDS! come hatch, learn, Chat, Meet new Friends!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...riends-come-hatch-learn-chat-meet-new-friends
Just pop in and say hello and what your plans are in the bator!
Experienced Hatchers also needed to help out with the growing demand for help with incubating!
Its not just for shipped eggs! Its awesome, most check daily and are there to help and support!
Disclaimer: Please note this information is offered as friendly advice only and, whilst I have made every effort to ensure it is accurate, I can not be held responsible if it proves not to be useful in your case!
Sally Sunshine
INCUBATING w/FRIENDS! come hatch, learn, Chat, Meet new Friends!
MY BYC INTERVIEW
Hatching 101 Guide ~ Guide to ASSISTED Hatching ~
CABINET COOLERBATOR ~ CoolerBATOR ~
Mushy Chick Disease ~ Duckling Care ~ "Nasty CKN Butt"~ Fermented Feed! ~ Processing Support
Pallet COOP~ Saloon COOP~ EASY 5gal Waterer~ PINTEREST Chickens~Gettin the Flock out of here~ CHICK LIGHT BOX
A little fun compliments of my friend Oz!
Here is a copy\paste of H101 for all those on desktop or that can't access it.... Don't even ask me how I managed to shuffle it
My new Avy Created by my friend cochins1088 from BYC,
How cool is that!
over here.
@Sally SunshineThank you
- Thread starter
- #72,443
@country lovin think she says 12"
http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/04/droppings-boards-because-poop-happens.html
http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/04/droppings-boards-because-poop-happens.html
He is very handsome! and somehow looks like one of the characters from the lion king movie?
Lol this was the wounded chick culprit...he's one of our babies lol
It was my fault, I had the door shut but didn't even think about him putting a paw underneath and snagging one!
Looks almost as if he has some "big cat" breeding in him.
chicken hawk 33
Songster
- Nov 4, 2015
- 6,446
- 322
- 216
so I can explain to you
Guys do you think I can just put the chick s that are from the third week of February and March first in the coop without a cage since there are no older birds. I will hang a lamp where the heated waterer goes. 8.8x10 with a vinyl floor. I need to put the shavings in, but I was waiting for the viricon to dry.
- Thread starter
- #72,447
spain whut?
I dont see why not>??Guys do you think I can just put the chick s that are from the third week of February and March first in the coop without a cage since there are no older birds. I will hang a lamp where the heated waterer goes. 8.8x10 with a vinyl floor. I need to put the shavings in, but I was waiting for the viricon to dry.
country lovin
Songster
the Hubs overruled what I said anyways. But I can't complain when he is checking things off the to do list!
chicken hawk 33
Songster
- Nov 4, 2015
- 6,446
- 322
- 216
The post about my muscovy
- Thread starter
- #72,450
Quote: typical, I fight till the death IF I know I am right, just sayinI have learned quick enough that a man can have something in his head, and want to run with it, DESPITE if its functional or practical for the use I need it for, This is why I do my own stuff
Plus we have a great ability to look ahead and foresee issues sorry mensfolks
- Status
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