How to Hatch Chickens from Fertilized Eggs: A Beginner’s Guide

Raising chickens from fertilized eggs is a rewarding experience connecting you to nature while allowing you to grow your flock from the beginning. Whether you’re interested in farming, sustainability, or want to enjoy the miracle of life, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to hatch healthy chickens.

Step 1: Sourcing Fertilized Eggs

Fertilized eggs are the starting point for hatching chickens. You can obtain them from:

Local farmers or hatcheries specializing in fertilized eggs.
Your flock, if you have a rooster among your hens.
Make sure the eggs are fresh and stored at room temperature before incubation. Avoid dirty eggs, cracked, or over 7 days old, as they are less likely to hatch.

Step 2: Preparing the Incubator

An incubator replicates the conditions of a hen sitting on her eggs by maintaining the proper temperature, humidity, and airflow.

Temperature: Maintain a consistent 99.5°F (37.5°C).
Humidity: Keep humidity levels at 50-55% for the first 18 days, and increase it to 65-70% during the last 3 days.
Ventilation: Ensure good airflow to provide oxygen for the developing chicks.

Before adding the eggs, run the incubator for 24 hours to confirm it holds a steady temperature and humidity.

Step 3: Incubating the Eggs

Place the eggs in the incubator with the pointy end down and the broader end slightly elevated. Follow these tips during incubation:

Turn the Eggs: Turn the eggs 3-5 times daily to prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell. Most incubators have automatic turning features, but if you’re turning manually, mark each side with an “X” or “O” to track the turns.
Monitor Conditions: Regularly check the temperature and humidity to ensure they stay within range.
Candling: Around day 7 and day 14, use a candler or flashlight to check for signs of development. Look for veins and movement inside the eggs. Discard any eggs that show no signs of growth.

Step 4: The Lockdown Phase (Days 18-21)

In the last 3 days before hatching:

Stop turning the eggs.
Increase humidity to prevent the membranes from drying out.
Avoid opening the incubator to maintain stable conditions.

This is a crucial period when the chicks position themselves for hatching.

Step 5: Hatching

On day 21 (sometimes day 20 or 22), you’ll notice the chicks starting to pip—a small crack or hole in the shell. This means they’re breaking through the shell using their egg tooth.

Be Patient: Hatching can take up to 24 hours. Do not interfere unless it’s clear the chick is struggling and requires assistance.
Let Them Dry: Once the chicks hatch, leave them in the incubator for 24 hours to dry and fluff up.

Step 6: Caring for the Chicks

After the chicks are dry, transfer them to a brooder. Here’s what they need:

Warmth: Maintain a temperature of 95°F (35°C) in the brooder during the first week, reducing by 5°F each week. Use a heat lamp for consistent warmth.
Bedding: Provide soft, absorbent bedding like pine shavings or paper towels.
Food and Water: Feed the chicks a high-quality starter feed and provide clean water in a shallow dish to prevent drowning.

Common Challenges and Tips

Eggs Not Hatching: This could be due to infertile eggs, improper conditions, or handling errors.
Chicks Stuck in Shells: Intervene only if necessary, as premature assistance can harm the chick.
Temperature Swings: Invest in a reliable incubator with automatic controls to prevent issues.

The Joy of Hatching Chickens

WHatching chickens from fertilized eggs is an incredible experience that teaches patience, responsibility, and an appreciation for the delicate process of life. With proper preparation and care, you’ll soon have a lively brood of chicks peeping and running around.

Have questions or want to share your own hatching experience? Leave a comment below! Happy hatching! 🐣