Storey's Guide to Raising Ducks by Dave Holderread

Author:Dave Holderread
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC
Published: 2011-08-31T16:00:00+00:00

Incubation Requirements

The following is a summary of the basic incubation requirements of duck eggs. Over time you will fine-tune these procedures to meet the unique needs of your own situation and environment. Some of the factors that affect incubation requirements are climate (especially temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure), elevation, breeds being hatched, diet of the breeding stock, and the duration of the hatching season.

Setting the Eggs

Start the incubator at least 48 to 72 hours ahead of time and make all necessary adjustments of temperature, humidity, and ventilation before the eggs are set. People frequently put eggs in machines that are not properly regulated, thinking they can make fine-tuned adjustments after the eggs are in place. This practice is a serious mistake because one of the most critical periods for the developing embryo is the first few days of incubation.

Prior to being placed in the incubator, duck eggs need to be warmed up for 5 or 6 hours at a room temperature of 70 to 80°F (21 to 27°C). If cold eggs are set without this warming period, water condenses on the shells and yolks occasionally rupture.

For high-percentage hatches it is essential that eggs are incubated in the correct position. Always set them with the large end (air cell) at least slightly raised. When duck eggs are set with the air cell lowered, their chances of hatching are significantly decreased. Set only the number of eggs that fit comfortably in the tray, without crowding or stacking them on top of one another. If at all possible, do not disturb the eggs during the first 24 hours in the incubator.

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