Good to Know

Here you will find useful information on incubation, the right hatching conditions, guide values and general tips and tricks.

Incubation: An Age-Old Practice Perfected by Innovation

Incubation is an ancient practice that has been refined over time, with its perfection often attributed to innovations from companies like Grumbach. Incubation is the process of hatching eggs in a controlled environment to facilitate the hatching of young animals. Grumbach incubators are known for their meticulous monitoring and precise control of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and ventilation. The main purpose of incubation is to create a stable and suitable environment for the embryo to develop into a healthy chick.

Understanding Embryonic Development

The development of the embryo within the egg is a delicate process. From the moment of fertilization, the embryo begins its growth process. In the initial days, essential organs begin to form. As days progress, features such as the beak, feathers, and claws start to develop. By maintaining optimal conditions, you ensure that this developmental journey proceeds smoothly.

The Importance of Incubation Time

The incubation period, or the time required for an embryo to develop and hatch, varies by species. It’s essential to understand the specific incubation time for each species. For example, chicken eggs generally require about 21 days to hatch, while duck eggs may need around 28 days. This period is crucial, as it indicates the duration for which the eggs must be kept under controlled conditions.

Cutting-Edge Innovations in Incubation

Modern incubators, particularly those by Grumbach, feature advanced functionalities. These include automatic turning mechanisms to ensure even development of the embryo, digital temperature and humidity controls for precision, and alarms that notify the user of any deviations from set parameters. These innovations have made the incubation process not only more efficient but also more successful.

Bird eggs typically need to be turned regularly to ensure even embryonic development and prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell. Most bird species' eggs should be turned 3 to 5 times daily, although some breeders recommend turning up to 12 to 15 times per day, depending on the species.

Each turning session usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes, and the eggs should be rotated at least 90 degrees to distribute nutrients and warmth evenly. However, it's important to follow species-specific guidelines, as requirements may vary between different types of birds.

Creating optimal conditions for incubation is crucial for hatching success. Key factors include:

  • Temperature: Ensures a consistent and precise temperature.
  • Humidity: Maintains optimal moisture levels to prevent eggs from drying out.
  • Ventilation: Provides a continuous supply of fresh air to the eggs.

 

Various factors can influence hatching success:

  • Age and Quality of Eggs: Fresh, high-quality eggs have a higher hatching rate.
  • Storage of Eggs: Eggs should not be stored too long before incubation.
  • Positioning of Eggs: Proper alignment of the egg in the incubator is important.

Choosing an Incubator: Essential Considerations for Every Breeder

Selecting an incubator is a crucial decision for any breeder, and Grumbach offers a wide range of options to ensure you choose the right incubator for your needs. Here are some key considerations when choosing the perfect Grumbach incubator:

Hatcher vs. Intensive Care Unit

Grumbach provides various types of incubators, including hatchers and intensive care units. It’s essential to understand how these devices function and their purpose:

  • Hatcher: Hatchers are specifically designed to incubate already fertilized eggs and support chicks in their first hours after hatching. They provide optimal conditions for the hatching phase.
  • Intensive Care Unit: Intensive care units, also known as brooders, are intended to care for young animals in their first weeks after hatching. They offer the necessary temperature, humidity, and ventilation to ensure the growth and health of the chicks.

Size and Capacity

Depending on your breeding needs, it’s essential to ensure the selected Grumbach incubator provides sufficient space. Overcrowding can negatively impact the hatching success rate. The incubator size depends on the number of eggs you wish to hatch simultaneously. Grumbach offers incubators in various sizes and capacities, allowing you to select the ideal option for your requirements.

Automation and Control

Grumbach incubators feature advanced technology, often including automated functions like continuous egg turning and digital controls for temperature and humidity. These functions enable precise and reliable incubation, making it easier to care for both eggs and chicks.

Species-Specific Considerations

Incubation requirements vary depending on the species. It’s essential to know the specific conditions your animals need. Grumbach offers incubators tailored to the needs of different species, whether poultry, reptiles, or other birds.

By carefully considering these factors and making the right choice, you can ensure you have the perfect Grumbach incubator to meet your breeding needs.

Here are guideline values for incubation temperatures and humidity levels for various bird species:

Poultry:

  • Chickens: Temperature: 37.5°C (99.5°F), Humidity: 50-55%
  • Ducks: Temperature: 37.5°C (99.5°F), Humidity: 55-60%
  • Geese: Temperature: 37.5°C (99.5°F), Humidity: 70-75%
  • Turkeys: Temperature: 37.5°C (99.5°F), Humidity: 55-60%

Exotic Birds:

  • Parrots: Temperature: 37-38°C (98.6-100.4°F), Humidity: 50-60%
  • Parakeets: Temperature: 37-38°C (98.6-100.4°F), Humidity: 50-60%

Songbirds:

  • Canaries: Temperature: 37.5-38°C (99.5-100.4°F), Humidity: 50-55%
  • Finches: Temperature: 37.5-38°C (99.5-100.4°F), Humidity: 50-55%

Please note that these are guideline values, and actual conditions may vary depending on the environment and specific circumstances. These are provided as reference values only.

Here are additional tips and tricks for achieving successful incubation:

  1. Use a High-Quality Thermometer and Hygrometer: Accurate temperature and humidity measurements are crucial for successful incubation. Invest in a high-quality thermometer and hygrometer to ensure precision, as even slight fluctuations can impact the development of the embryo.

  2. Place the Incubator in a Protected Location: Choose a stable and draft-free location for your incubator, away from direct sunlight, windows, or heating vents. This helps maintain consistent environmental conditions and reduces the risk of temperature fluctuations.

  3. Minimize Opening the Incubator: Each time the incubator is opened, temperature and humidity levels drop, which can stress the embryos. Open the incubator only when necessary, such as for adding water or adjusting settings, to maintain a stable environment.

  4. Always Use Distilled Water: To prevent mineral buildup that can affect humidity levels and incubator performance, use distilled water when adding moisture to the incubator. This ensures consistent humidity and helps prolong the life of the equipment.

  5. Regularly Clean and Sanitize Equipment: Between hatching cycles, thoroughly clean and disinfect the incubator to prevent bacterial buildup that could harm developing embryos. Use a mild, non-toxic disinfectant and rinse well, allowing the incubator to dry completely before reuse.

  6. Monitor Egg Position and Turning: Ensure eggs are correctly positioned in the incubator with the larger end slightly elevated, as this helps embryos orient for hatching. If your incubator doesn’t have an automatic turning function, manually turn the eggs three to five times daily to prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell.

  7. Check Humidity Daily: Humidity levels may vary over the incubation period, especially in the final days before hatching. Adjust humidity as necessary based on the species-specific requirements, and add water as needed to maintain optimal conditions.

  8. Prepare for the Hatching Phase: During the final days before hatching, stop turning the eggs and slightly increase humidity to aid the chicks in breaking through the shell. Avoid opening the incubator during this time, as maintaining stable humidity is crucial for the chicks to hatch safely.

  9. Observe and Note Outcomes: Keep track of each hatching cycle's success rates, any issues, and adjustments. Observing patterns can help you refine your process over time, leading to improved outcomes in future cycles.

By following these tips, you’ll create a well-controlled environment that supports healthy embryo development and maximizes hatching success.