Where/how do I measure humidity? Tips on hatching?

[dragonlair]

I have the basic incubator you get at TSC, I'm guessing it's still air? I ran one batch of eggs thru it, none hatched but that could be the roos fault-he's a bantam/polish cross and the girls are all full sized breeds. But then it could also be related to the girls as the youngest are 2, the oldest 4 years old.

I did candle them, most were just eggs. A couple had veins, but did not survive. The temp stayed at 99.9 which is what the directions said to keep it at. Should it have been warmer?

I want to try a test run, but i also want to make sure everything is working well and just right. Any hints and equipment I should have? I know I should get a turner, but that will be a next years purchase. Until then, I turn the eggs 4 times a day. Where can I get something to measure the humidity? What should it be at and at which stage of incubation?

Thanks!

 

[Caribear]

To measure humidity you need a hygrometer. Look on amazon, they have a good variety. Mine measures humidity and temperature, and is small enough that I can just leave it in the incubator. You will want to measure humidity throughout incubation. It's a good idea to test its accuracy before you start incubating. Look up "how to calibrate a hygrometer" and you'll find some good tutorials.

The ideal percentage varies depending on who you ask. I keep mine in the 30s until lockdown, then I raise it to 60-70+ at lockdown. I also keep a fine mist spray bottle by the bator during lockdown, just in case I have to open the lid while the chicks are hatching. I just crack the lid, spray in some warm water, do what I need to do quickly, then shut it back up.