Chicken eggs typically take 21 days to hatch from the start of incubation. This period begins when the eggs are placed in the incubator at the proper temperature (99.5°F / 37.5°C). The last 3 days (days 18–21) are called the "lockdown" phase, during which you stop turning the eggs and raise the humidity to 65–75% to help chicks break free from their shells.

For most poultry eggs, the ideal incubation temperature is 99°F–100°F (37.2°C–37.8°C).

• Forced-air incubators: Maintain 99.5°F (37.5°C)
• Still-air incubators: Aim for 101°F–102°F (38.3°C–38.9°C) measured at the top of the eggs

Even a 1°F difference sustained over several days can significantly affect hatch rates, so always use a calibrated thermometer.

Eggs should be turned at least 3 times per day, and ideally an odd number of times (3, 5, or 7) so the eggs spend alternating nights on different sides. This prevents the embryo from sticking to the shell membrane.

• Turn from day 1 until 3 days before the expected hatch date
• Automatic egg turners typically turn every 1–2 hours, which is ideal
• Stop turning completely during lockdown (last 3 days before hatch)

Never turn eggs during the final 3 days — this is the hatching phase.

Maintaining the correct humidity is just as important as temperature. Here are the general guidelines:

• Incubation phase (Days 1–18 for chickens): 45–55% relative humidity
• Lockdown phase (Last 3 days): Increase to 65–75% relative humidity
• Duck & Goose eggs: Require slightly higher humidity (55–65%) throughout incubation

Low humidity causes the air cell to grow too large; high humidity slows evaporation and can drown the chick before hatch. Use a hygrometer to monitor levels accurately.

Yes! Our Egg Incubation Calculator supports 12+ bird species with accurate incubation periods for each:

🐔 Chicken — 21 days
🦆 Duck — 28 days
🪿 Goose — 30 days
🦃 Turkey — 28 days
🐦 Quail — 17 days
🦜 Parrot — 21 days
🕊️ Pigeon — 18 days
🦚 Ostrich — 42 days
🦅 Pheasant — 24 days
🐓 Guinea Fowl — 28 days
🦆 Muscovy Duck — 35 days
🐦 Emu — 50 days

Simply select your species, enter the incubation start date, and instantly get the predicted hatch date, lockdown date, and a full care guide.