Considering all this, have you all ever had success with shipping eggs? That can be quite a challenge!
I’ve had a few shipped but lost a couple due to rough handling. It’s hit or miss!
3 Likes
For those that have hatched, how long did it take for your eggs to hatch? I’ve heard anywhere from 28 to 30 days!
You’re correct, it’s about 28 days, but make sure to keep an eye on humidity levels!
On a lighter note, why do turkey eggs look so much like giant chicken eggs? I feel like it’s a poultry conspiracy!
Haha! Right? It’s like one is just trying to outdo the other in the egg department!
Overall, the joy of hatching these eggs outweighs the challenges. Just be sure to stay patient and hopeful throughout the process!
When hatching turkey eggs, maintaining the right humidity and temperature is crucial. Aim for about 99.5°F and 55-60% humidity during incubation. Too dry or wet can cause problems!
1 Like
Absolutely! I’ve seen so many new hatchers get this wrong. If you’re too low on humidity, the chicks can get stuck in the shell. That’s called ‘shrink wrapping’ and it’s a nightmare!
Don’t forget about sanitation! Clean your incubator thoroughly before use to prevent bacterial infections. It’s the first step to a successful hatch.
2 Likes
Great point! I always use a mild bleach solution to disinfect. Just make sure to rinse well so there are no residues left behind!
5 Likes
It’s also important to check the egg’s air cell size. If it’s too small or too big, it can indicate a problem. A good way to monitor is by candling the eggs.
Exactly! Candling helps you see if the embryos are developing properly. I remember my first hatch, and I was amazed at how much you can see!
What’s the best temperature to increase if eggs are not hatching? I’ve heard conflicting opinions, and I’m trying to figure it out before I lose my batch.
Typically, you should maintain around 99.5°F, but if you’re having issues, some people slightly increase it to 100-101°F briefly. Just be careful not to overdo it!
2 Likes
I faced some embryo development problems last season due to fluctuating temperatures. I learned that even a slight change can be distressing for the embryos!
Totally relatable! Investing in a good thermometer and hygrometer helped me a lot. Worth every penny!
Has anyone noticed a pattern in hatch rates related to egg source? I’ve had better luck with local farms than with mail order. Interesting, right?
I totally agree! Local eggs seem to fare much better, maybe they’re fresher? Just makes sense!
You know, I once joked that I should charge admission to watch my hatching debacles! It was a learning curve for sure, but those little turkeys are worth it.