Hatcher

Eggs are placed in the hatcher trays by variety to keep the chicks separate until they can be wing tagged.

Astroturf mats are used in the bottom of the hatcher to ensure that the chicks have good footing as they dry off and gain strength in their legs.  This helps prevent slipped tendons, spraddled legs, and crooked toes.  The chicks remain in the hatcher for one day after hatching.

Two water pans are used in the hatcher to raise the humidity to help the chicks during hatching.

A hatcher is simply an incubator in which the trays do not tilt, eggs are not turned, humidity levels are elevated, and eggs are separated by variety.  A hatcher is a very valuable tool since it can be cleaned and disinfected easily after each hatch of chicks.

© 2008, Hopkins' Alternative Livestock

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