The avian embryo is amazing and exciting. In only three weeks, a

where it may be exposed to the direct rays of the sun or near cold walls. 
There are two basic types of incubators available, forced-air and still-air incubators. In 
forced-air incubators, fans provide internal circulation. The capacity of these units may be 
large. The still-air incubators are usually small and have no fans for air circulation. Air 
exchange is made by escaping warm, stale air at the top and entering cooler, fresh air at the 
bottom. Recommended temperatures will vary between the two incubators, so follow the 
manufacturer's recommendations. All references to incubators are directed to the still-air 
incubators except where noted. 
Clean and disinfect the incubator before each use. Wash the unit with a warm detergent 
solution and rinse with a disinfectant solution. This reduces the chances of carrying 
disease-causing organisms from one batch of eggs to another. 
Start the incubator a day or two before setting the eggs. Turn on the heat and place water 
in the tray so proper incubation conditions can be obtained. Place a thermometer in the 
incubator so the bulb is one inch above the screen floor, close the incubator, and adjust the 
thermostat until the temperature stays between 101
o
 and 102
o
F. Be careful that the bulb of 
the thermometer does not touch the eggs or side of the incubator. The sides and top of the 
incubator should fit together securely to prevent heat loss. 

---

To get the best possible hatch, keep the temperature as close to 102
o
F. as possible for the 
complete incubation period. There will be minor fluctuations of 1
o
F. above and below the