To achieve the best possible hatch rate, please follow these guidelines carefully

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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

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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

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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

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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)

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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.