To achieve the best possible hatch rate, please follow these guidelines carefully
1 – Resting the Eggs
- Upon arrival, allow eggs to rest at room temperature for 12–24 hours before incubation
- Place them pointed end down during this time
- Do not wash or clean the eggs, as this removes the natural protective coating
2 – Egg Positioning (Important)
- For incubation, place eggs pointed end down, blunt end up
- This ensures the developing chick can access the air cell correctly before hatching
Alternative method (manual turning):
- Eggs may be laid on their sides if turning by hand
- Turn gently and consistently at least twice daily
3 – Hand-Turning Tip
- When turning by hand, alternate the direction each time (back and forth)
- Avoid rotating eggs continuously in one direction only
- Simple method: mark one side “X” and the other “O”, then flip X → O → X → O each turn
- This keeps the embryo properly centred and developing evenly
4 – Incubation (Days 1–14)
- Preheat your incubator before setting the eggs
- Temperature: 37.7°C
- Humidity: 45–60%
- Turn eggs at least twice daily (or use an automatic turner)
5 – Lockdown & Hatching (Days 15–17)
- At the end of Day 14, stop turning the eggs (“lockdown”)
- Adjust incubator settings:
- Temperature: 37.5°C
- Humidity: 80–90%
- Do not open the incubator during this period
- Chicks should begin hatching around Day 17
6 – During Hatch
- Avoid opening the incubator while chicks are actively hatching
- After the first chicks hatch, wait approximately 24 hours, then:
- Remove only fully dry chicks
- Close the incubator promptly to maintain humidity
- Allow remaining eggs to complete hatching undisturbed
7 – Brooder Setup
- Preheat brooder to 36°C before introducing chicks
- Ensure chicks can move freely between warm and cooler areas
- Reduce temperature by approximately 1°C every 2 days
- Observe chick behaviour:
- Too cold: chicks huddle tightly
- Too hot: chicks spread out and pant
8 – Feeding
- Feed 28% protein BYF Quail Starter Feed from day one
- Provide feed ad lib (always available) for the first 3 weeks
- Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water (use shallow drinkers to prevent drowning)
Additional Notes
- Consistency is key — avoid fluctuations in temperature and humidity
- Avoid unnecessary handling or opening of the incubator
- Hatch rates may vary due to transport and incubation conditions
Back Yard Farmer 