Newbie - just got an incubator, have questions, HELP!

[sdm111]

I've done best with 20ish percent days 1-18

 

[mcanada1779]

this is the first day with 41 eggs. humidity is reading 32% so just leave it there and don't try to get it to 45-50%??

 

[sdm111]

Correct that is what I would do. So right now there's no water in it?

 

[mcanada1779]

I actually have water in the 2 outside small chambers right now. but humidity is only at 30-32% there is a large center area left. I will leave it just like that.

 

[RobinFarmGirl]

Oh goodness - so much information!! I want to do the right thing but I guess it's trial and error...

Here is another question:
(1) I have a banty hen that is laying eggs. I'd like to collect them and then put them in the incubator the same day so the hatch schedule is the same for all. However, I have been told development & hatching rate is best when the egg is put directly in the incubator the day it is laid. This would make the hatch day (and lock down schedule different) What is anyone's opinion on this? Which is better/easier?

I'm not sure how to handle the different schedule if I put the eggs in on different days... can you give me instructions.?

Thank you!!
Robin

 

[WalnutHill]

It's easiest all the way around if you gather several eggs to set at once. Then you can move to the hatcher at once, hatch over a 24-48 hour period, and start the chicks together.

You can gather eggs for two weeks with no problem. Three weeks is usually okay too. Keep them in a humid, cool, dark place like under the basement stairs or porch. It wouldn't hurt to turn them once in a while too.

 

[RobinFarmGirl]

Wow, thanks for responding so quickly!! I will try that. As far as the humidity reading, it should be 70-75%? Temp still 99.5F?

 

[sdm111]

70-75% humidity during 1-18 wil most certainly lead to a disastrous hatch

 

[RobinFarmGirl]

Oh my goodness then..... I was going by previous posts on this thread!! I guess I should stick to the directions that came with my incubator?? Oh brother. I dont' think I'm gonna do well

 

[sdm111]

I have been incubating for a great while, I, I do best at around 20% during 1-18 and around 70% in hatcher. Everybody has their own way but that's mine. I will say that 75% is way too high for 1-18 they WILL grow too big and won't be able to turn so when hatch day comes you're gonna have a hatcher full of pipped dead chicks. Sorry but it is what it is