Silkie thread!

[debs_flock]

Partridge chicks are my absolute favorite!

Deb

 

[CALI CHICK]

I'm thinking I might try incubating some Catdance Silkie eggs next year. I only have 1 silkie now and he is a Cockerel, but is so sweet. He is just now finding his crowing voice and will be 9 months old in 2 weeks. I want to get him some Silkie friends, but I have to wait til next year. Any recommendations as far as incubators go? Do you all use one for incubating and then use a different one for when they hatch? Any information would be much appreciated!

Thanks,
Shyla

Hi Shyla,
I bought a Hova Bator 2362 with a fan. I chose it because it was the best I could do within my budget. It has given me wonderful results (as good as 100%). I also purchased an automatic egg turner so all I have to do is add water every couple of days to keep the humidity steady. I've got 3 thermometers and one hygrometer in the bator and it holds it's temperature and humidity SO good. This Hova Bator is not the "automatic Genesis" one, so you have to find the temperature yourself. But, I hardly have to make any adjustments......even between hatches, I just plug it in and it warms right up to a steady 100* for me. You also asked about hatching. I have an older Hova Bator (without a fan) that I use for lockdown and hatching. It's nice to have two, especially when you have staggered hatches.

Oh, and just a tip....try to start with local eggs (even if it's a carton of Trader Joes fertile eggs). This will give you experience candling and using your new incubator without spending a fortune. And, you won't feel so terrible if something goes wrong. Once you get the hang of it, buy those expensive shipped silkie eggs. I really enjoy incubating, hatching and raising silkies. We've made it fun for the whole family. Good luck!

 

[ajdeitz]

Thank you! I have been so worried about them not having enough space! Your post eases my mind!

 

[Shyla-C]

Quote: Thank you for this information. I will check out that incubator. I definitely want to try hatching some less expensive eggs first. The best part is when I do get confident enough to try some of the Catdance eggs, she is within a few hours drive from me! ROAD TRIP!!!

Again thank you so much for that information.

 

[KMHunter]

I'm thinking I might try incubating some Catdance Silkie eggs next year. I only have 1 silkie now and he is a Cockerel, but is so sweet. He is just now finding his crowing voice and will be 9 months old in 2 weeks. I want to get him some Silkie friends, but I have to wait til next year. Any recommendations as far as incubators go? Do you all use one for incubating and then use a different one for when they hatch? Any information would be much appreciated!

Thanks,
Shyla

I borrowed WA4H-Poultrymom's Hobavator Genesis. It was a no brainer! I loved it! I am asking for one for Christmas so I can hatch in Jan.

 

[TAMMACLEAN]

Quick question.....What is the average age silkies start to lay??

 

[aoxa]

Quick question.....What is the average age silkies start to lay??

For mine 7 months and over.

 

[Herducks]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Deluxe-Chic...910?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item416adcaf36

Is this coop big enough to keep 5-6 silkies in?

 

[aoxa]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Deluxe-Chic...910?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item416adcaf36

Is this coop big enough to keep 5-6 silkies in?

It says it is. I wouldn't keep more than a broody and her chicks in it though. I like for them to have lots of room.

 

[littlecritters]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Deluxe-Chic...910?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item416adcaf36

Is this coop big enough to keep 5-6 silkies in?

Looks cute...this may be made of a very lightweight wood which may need paint or stain to weatherproof it. The living dimensions are 25"x25", yet the depth is 36", doesn't seem to match...