Hatching chicks at home is fun, educational, and rewarding. With just a few tools and some care, you can do it yourself! Here’s a quick guide:
Step 1: Prepare the Eggs
- Choose clean, fertilized eggs (don’t wash them).
- Place them in a container lined with sawdust or rice husks.
Step 2: Set Up the Incubator
- Use a box or foam cooler.
- Add a light bulb with a thermostat to keep the temp around 37.5°C (99.5°F).
- Use a thermometer and keep humidity at 50–60%, increasing a bit in the last few days.
Turn the Eggs
- Turn eggs 3–5 times a day to prevent sticking.
- Do this gently by hand or with a simple turning system.
Step 3: Hatching Time
- Chicks will start hatching after about 21 days.
- Keep them warm under a lamp (around 35°C / 95°F).
- Use a mesh cover to avoid direct contact with the bulb.
After Hatching
- Keep chicks in a warm, dry area with good airflow.
- Give them clean water and chick starter feed.
- Lower the temperature gradually each week.
Quick Tips
- Watch temp and humidity.
- Let chicks hatch naturally if possible.
- with a little effort and patience, you’ll soon have happy, healthy chicks chirping away at home!
