Natural Incubation and Hatching in Poultry

Natural incubation by hens is a traditional and effective method for hatching eggs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure a successful incubation and hatching process for indigenous chickens:

1. Egg Collection and Storage

• Number of Eggs: An indigenous hen typically lays 15-20 eggs before starting incubation.
• Incubation Period: For chickens, the incubation period is 21 days; for ducks, it’s 28 days.
• Egg Age: Use eggs that are no more than 10 days old if stored at temperatures below 20°C. For higher temperatures, use eggs no older than 5 days.
• Storage: Keep eggs in a cool, humid place. A box in the coolest part of the house works well.
• Egg Quality: Choose eggs of average size and normal shape with smooth shells. Avoid eggs with cracks to prevent moisture loss and contamination.

2. Selection and Checking Fertility

• Candling: Check eggs for fertility by candling. Fertile eggs will show blood vessels and a dark spot, while infertile eggs will have an enlarged air space and a dark area.
• Remove Unfertile Eggs: Regularly remove infertile eggs and those with dead embryos to avoid contamination and spoilage.

3. Brooding Hen Management

• Isolation: Separate the brooding hen from the flock to prevent disturbances.
• Nesting: Provide a spacious nest or basket with fresh hay or straw and some ashes to avoid parasites.
• Egg Quantity: A hen can incubate up to 10 times her body weight in eggs (e.g., a 1.5 kg hen can sit on 15 eggs).
• Humidity: In hot, dry weather, spray the hen’s breast with water to maintain humidity around the eggs.
• Conditions: Ensure the nest is clean and the surroundings are quiet for optimal hatching conditions.

4. Hatching and Post-Hatching Care

• Hatching Success: A free-range hen often achieves a higher hatching rate (80-100%) compared to artificial incubators (60-80%).
• Protection: The hen will protect the chicks from adverse weather and predators using her wings.
• Chick Development: Chicks will benefit from the hen’s natural behavior, including finding food, avoiding predators, and keeping healthy through dust bathing.
• Hen’s Return to Laying: The hen typically resumes laying 6-8 weeks after hatching, though a strong bond with the chicks may persist.

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