Thank you for the feedback. As far as the comment, I believe it was in the hatching and incubation thread. Forgive me if that is not what it’s called. This is my first time using this kind of site. So providing that orientation isn’t a big issue and I let them rest for about 24 hours after delivery, should I get an automatic turner? How important is a fan? I wish it had occurred to me that there would be more concerns with shipped eggs. My husband and I just knew how well it always went for us before, but we didn’t factor in that they were our eggs so they didn’t get jostled about.
Hi again Auto turners are just convenient IMO. I don't feel they affect the hatch rate as long as you are vigilant in turning yourself...its what the hen does and nothing hatches better on my farm than the real thing. I think its important to not over think this and trust in what you know. Will an $800 incubator give you better hatch rates than a $50 one? Its likely that it will with the right variables in play but if you can handle the basics like temp, humidity and turning properly you're already doing great. I have several incubators, one which is extremely expensive...it has it all - a water pump controlled by humidity controls, a fan to circulate the warm and humid air, an automatic turner etc...with shipped eggs I've had hatch rates upwards of 90% and as low as 25%. My point is, there are things you can't control (like what happens during shipping) but with the equipment and knowledge you already have, you should be able to achieve the best of all possible outcomes. If getting an all inclusive incubator buys you peace of mind, perhaps do it but its likely not going to have a huge impact.