I just set my first batch of bantam eggs in a new Hova-
Blueboy, There are so many variables with hatching in incubators, the small ones simply require a "feeling" to assess their failures and successes, especially with a new incubator. I have been sending inquiries about hatches to:
Bator incubator, the one with the electronic thermostat and turbo fan. The theremostat is pre-set at GQF and says there is not need for adjustment of the temperature. Out of 7 eggs only 2 chicks hatched. Upon breaking the remaining 5 eggs, I found fully developed chicks, some with yolks attached and some with yolks already absorbed..... We're talking about major disappointment, here. I kept water in both troughs in the bottom of the incubator to maintain
the humidity. However, I did not keep the vent hole capped because I thought the incubator needed some type of air exchange. Any idess or suggestions??? I've got more eggs in the incubator and I do not want to repeat such a dismal hatch. Thanks.
By Cjeanr on Saturday, March 16, 2002 - 01:32 pm:
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/BODY_AA204
You can see how many answers there can be! I rarely am pleased with my small incubator hatches (TurnX6A) but it is much better now that I keep it in the basement that has amost constant temperature and humidity. No doors to open and let in a draft!! I prefer hens to hatch for me, since I do not hatch many over 100 chicks in a year--and hatch all year, under hens,(can only cover 5-8 eggs each) with a only a few larger hatches in the incubator when there are a number of eggs from certain breeders that I particulary want for exhibition bird requests. It is such a disappointment when you get so close to hatch and have failure--sometimes similar eggs are not available again, so it is is loss, also! But just keep trying and remember too much humidity is as bad as too little--a dilema we must sort out! Good luck this next hatch! CJR