Locking down?

[Orphy]

I know this sounds stoopid, but I have heard different people refer to it at the time when they first put the eggs in and then again on the last 3 days... so which is it? I am new to this and want to make sure I get the terms right, LOL

 

[Majestic Lane Poultry]

Lock Down occurs on Day 18. That is when you do not under any circumstances open the lid for the next 3-4 days until hatch is over.

Therefore, virtually "locked down".

 

[kathyinmo]

Quote:
Not stupid at all! You should have seen the questions I asked my first time!

I could not figure out what, "turning," the eggs was ... in an egg turner! I thought the eggs needed to turn upside down! Nowhere did is say, that they are just gently rolled!

Anyway, about your question ...
The first 18 days are the incubation period. Then, on day 18 ... you increase the humidity, and keep the incubator closed (to keep the humidity in there). Be sure, though, to have your vent open ... for oxygen. If you have a styrofoam incubator, there are 12 little holes on the bottom. Those are for oxygen, also. Be sure they are not covered or obstructed. Oxygen is important, especially when hatching!

I didn't know that, and I covered the holes with tape (I thought they were "overflow," holes or something!). I lost a hatch from that! I also had the vent plugged, trying to keep the humidity in. Boy, did I learn!

Good luck!

 

[Orphy]

Thank you so much! my eggs are coming next week and want to make sure I don't mess something up. I feel like I am on edge worrying about ruining the wole hatch!