Introduction
Incubating turkey eggs successfully is equal parts science and discipline. Every degree and every percent of humidity affects your hatch rate. Here at AV Birds, we’ve hatched thousands of heritage turkey poults and compiled seven field-tested tips to help you achieve consistent results and healthy birds.
1. Start with Fresh Fertile Eggs
Egg quality is the foundation. Always use eggs laid within 7 days and stored at 55 °F with 70–80 % humidity. Each extra day reduces hatchability by ≈ 2 %. Avoid washing eggs since that removes the protective cuticle.
➡ (Internal link: AV Birds Fertile Turkey Eggs page)
2. Calibrate Your Incubator Before Setting
A 0.5 °F temperature error can reduce hatch rate by 10 %. Use two thermometers (one digital, one analog) and a reliable hygrometer. Check airflow and confirm the heating element maintains 99.5 °F consistently.
(External link: University of Kentucky Poultry Incubation Guide)
3. Maintain Steady Humidity
Turkey eggs need ≈ 50 % humidity for days 1–25 and ≈ 65 % for lockdown (Day 26–28). Add water trays or wet sponges to stabilize levels and avoid sudden opening of the lid during pipping.
4. Turn Eggs Regularly
Turn each egg at least 3 times daily to prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell. Automated turners save time, but manual turning works if done gently and on schedule. Stop turning at Day 25.
5. Candle and Cull at Key Stages
Candle on Day 7 to confirm development and again on Day 14 to check air cell size. Remove infertile or dead embryos to prevent rot and bacterial spread. A healthy egg shows veining and movement by Day 10.
6. Lockdown Patience is Key
When you reach lockdown, resist opening the incubator. Even a few seconds can drop humidity enough to shrink-wrap poults. Let them pip, rest, and push out naturally. Average hatch window: 24 hours.
7. Brooder Preparation Before Hatch
Have the brooder ready before the first egg hatches. Temperature 95 °F for week 1, fresh bedding, and clean feed/water prevent losses in the first 48 hours.
Bonus: Record Your Data
Keep a log of temps, humidity, and results each batch. This simple habit lets you spot patterns and continuously improve hatch rates.
Why Choose AV Birds for Your Eggs
Our Bourbon Red, Royal Palm, and Slate lines are selected for fertility and vigor. Every egg is carefully packed and date-coded for maximum viability. Whether you hatch dozens or hundreds, we supply the quality you need to succeed.
(Internal link: Shop Hatching Eggs at AVBirds.com)
Conclusion
A great hatch is never luck—it’s care, consistency, and knowledge. Apply these seven tips, and your next set of turkey eggs will reward you with vigorous poults and less loss. Order your next batch of fertile eggs from AV Birds today.