“I’m struggling with my first attempt at hatching chicken eggs. The incubator temperature seems to fluctuate, and I’m not sure if I’m doing the humidity right. What are the common problems I should watch out for during chicken hatching?” Thanks so much, Elizabeth, Melbourne, Australia.
What Are The Common Problems During Chicken Hatching?
Hey Elizabeth! Thanks for reaching out about your chicken hatching concerns. It’s great that you’re taking on this rewarding project in Melbourne. Hatching chickens can be an exciting but sometimes challenging process, especially for first-timers. Let’s walk through some common issues you might encounter and how to address them.
Temperature Fluctuations
You mentioned temperature fluctuations in your incubator, Elizabeth, and that’s actually one of the most common problems during chicken hatching. Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial for successful incubation. The ideal temperature for chicken eggs is typically around 37.5°C (99.5°F).
- Causes of fluctuations:
- Faulty thermostats
- Power outages
- Drafts or direct sunlight
- Frequent opening of the incubator
To address this, consider investing in a high-quality digital thermometer and hygrometer combo. Place it at egg level for accurate readings. If you notice frequent fluctuations, you might need to calibrate your incubator or consider replacing it if it’s an older model.
Humidity Issues
Proper humidity levels are just as crucial as temperature. During the first 18 days of incubation, relative humidity should be between 50-55%. In the last three days (the “lockdown” period), it should be increased to about 65-70%.
Elizabeth, since you mentioned uncertainty about humidity, here are some tips:
- Use a reliable hygrometer to monitor humidity levels
- Adjust water levels in the incubator to increase or decrease humidity
- Consider using a automatic humidity control system for more precise management
Remember, too low humidity can result in chicks getting stuck to the shell, while too high can lead to “drowning” in the egg.
Improper Egg Turning
Eggs need to be turned regularly during the first 18 days of incubation to prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell. If you’re using a manual incubator, you’ll need to turn the eggs at least 3-5 times a day.
Elizabeth, if you find yourself forgetting to turn the eggs, set alarms on your phone as reminders. Alternatively, consider an automatic egg turner to make the process easier.
Contamination and Infection
Bacterial contamination can be a silent killer in the incubation process. It often results from dirty eggs or unsanitary incubator conditions.
- Prevention tips:
- Clean eggs gently with a dry cloth before incubation
- Sanitize the incubator before use
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling eggs
If you notice any foul smells coming from the incubator, it could be a sign of contamination. Remove any affected eggs immediately to prevent spread.
Power Outages
Power outages can be devastating for incubating eggs. Even a few hours without power can significantly impact hatch rates.
To prepare for this, Elizabeth, consider having a backup power source like a generator or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system. In case of a short outage, covering the incubator with blankets can help maintain temperature for a while.
Incorrect Incubation Period
Chicken eggs typically take 21 days to hatch. Miscalculating this period can lead to premature or delayed hatching attempts.
Keep a calendar or use a mobile app to track the incubation period accurately. Remember, day one is the day you put the eggs in the incubator, not the day they were laid.
Poor Egg Selection
The quality of eggs you start with can significantly impact your hatch success rate. Eggs that are misshapen, extra large or small, or have thin or rough shells are less likely to hatch successfully.
When selecting eggs for hatching:
- Choose eggs that are clean and free from cracks
- Avoid eggs with calcium deposits or other shell abnormalities
- Use eggs that are no more than 7-10 days old
Genetic Issues
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, Elizabeth, some eggs won’t hatch due to genetic issues. This is often beyond your control and is part of the natural selection process.
Assisting Hatching Prematurely
It’s tempting to help a chick that seems to be struggling to hatch, but interfering too early can actually harm the chick. Hatching is a process that can take 24-48 hours from when the chick first pips (breaks through the shell).
Only assist if:
- The chick has been trying to hatch for more than 48 hours
- The membrane has dried around the chick, preventing movement
- You’re certain the incubation period is complete
Chick Deformities
Occasionally, you might encounter chicks with deformities such as crooked toes, splayed legs, or other physical abnormalities. These can be caused by various factors including genetics, incubation temperature fluctuations, or nutritional deficiencies in the parent birds.
While some minor issues can be corrected, others may require difficult decisions about the chick’s quality of life.
Failure to Enter Lockdown
The lockdown period (last 3 days of incubation) is crucial. During this time, you should stop turning the eggs and increase humidity. Failing to enter lockdown can result in chicks positioned incorrectly for hatching.
Elizabeth, make sure to mark your calendar clearly for when lockdown should begin.
Broody Hen Issues
If you’re using a broody hen instead of an incubator, you might face different challenges:
- The hen abandoning the nest
- Hen aggression towards people or other chickens
- Multiple hens trying to sit on the same nest
Provide a quiet, secluded nesting area for broody hens and ensure they have easy access to food and water.
Post-Hatch Care Problems
Once the chicks hatch, a new set of potential issues arise:
- Failure to remove chicks from the incubator promptly
- Incorrect brooder temperature
- Pasty butt (a condition where droppings stick to the chick’s vent)
- Dehydration or starvation due to not learning to eat and drink
Prepare your brooder setup before the eggs start hatching to ensure a smooth transition for the newly hatched chicks.
Final Thoughts…
Elizabeth, hatching chickens is a journey filled with learning experiences. The key issues to watch out for are maintaining consistent temperature and humidity, proper egg turning, and avoiding contamination. Remember that even experienced hatchers don’t achieve 100% success rates, so don’t be discouraged if things don’t go perfectly on your first try.
Thank you for sharing your concerns about your chicken hatching project. Your dedication to getting it right is admirable. Keep monitoring your incubator closely, maintain good hygiene practices, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re unsure. With patience and attention to detail, I’m confident you’ll soon be welcoming some fluffy new additions to your Melbourne backyard. Best of luck with your hatch, Elizabeth!
