- Dec 21, 2013
- 303
- 19
- 83
I am trying to hatch coturnix quail eggs. This is my third attempt. Originally the incubator was by the back door and I thought the temperature changes from opening and closing the door was the cause of death for my eggs. I moved it into my bedroom where the temperature is more stable, set 100 eggs in my turner. I float tested a few before lockdown, most sank and a few floated. I tossed the ones I noticed were cracked and smelled a little. I put the rest (sinkers and floaters alike) back in the incubator for lock down. They are 2 days overdue. I candled two of the floaters and two that sank. All 4 had small chicks in them but all where dead. It's like they get to a certain point in development and die off. I am going to candle a few more and see. Last batch I tried some even had a few feathers. I just can't figure out why they keep dying. It is frustrating. I keep the temp at 99.8 but it drops about 3-4 degrees before the heat kicks back on. (hovobator incubator) I bought it used so I am not sure if the thermostat is just bad and the temperature fluctuation is the issue or if a few degrees is ok. I figured when the hen moves to turn them the temperature changes briefly so it should be ok... Please HELP!