Problems Incubating Chukar Eggs

[ohiobirdman]

I have hatched three sets of Chukar eggs to this point. The first I hatched 2 of 9, the second 4 of 14, and now the third I hatched 15 of 20. My only problem is that of the 5 that didn't hatch were all almost fully developed with only a pea sized sack attached to them. I wanted to know where I messed up? I realize that 15 out of 20 is a pretty good rate but 20 of 20 would have been better. I store my eggs between 55 and 60 degrees at 60-70% humidity (I just started this with the third group, hence the terrible hatch rate with the first two). Any causes that anyone can think of? I was thinking back to the transfer to the hatcher and I cannot think of any problems I had.

 

[dc3085]

What are your incubator conditions for incubation and lockdown?

Are you running the air vents wide open at lockdown?

Are these your eggs or shipped eggs?

 

[ohiobirdman]

The first 21 days my incubator stays from 99.3-101.2 and 45-55% humidity with one vent open(forced air). At lockdown the temp is 102 with a humidity of 65-70% and both vents open (still air). These are my eggs. I have 2 breeding pens with 2 males and 4 females each. Sorry I forgot to add this part.

 

[Chukar Hatcher]

Is it good that I'm turning my eggs chukar every 8 hours?

 

[ohiobirdman]

I use an auto Turner but three times a day seems right to me.

 

[dc3085]

There is evidence that suggests that Chukar eggs have a higher hatch rate after they've been properly stored for 14 days. Maybe it would be worth giving that a try, even though the increase in hatchability is minimal. Check out the egg storage chart on page 3

 

[ohiobirdman]

All of my eggs are 7-14 days old when set in the incubator. Eggs between 7 and 11 days seem to have the highest rate for me. The difference is only two chicks though. My first hatch all eggs were between 10-18 days old and the 10 day old eggs were the only ones to hatch.

 

[dc3085]

Try storing the eggs at a little lower humidity if possible. I store mine around 50% humidity and generally around 55*. At this point it would be really hard to say exactly what would increase your rate, so let the experimenting begin.

 

[ohiobirdman]

I have wondered why 70% was recommended. They live in such an arid climate 70% would be hard to maintain. I will begin the experiments. I appreciate your input. I am always willing to accept free advice.

 

[ohiobirdman]

Update. .. 15 out of 20 hatched this time around.