Turning Eggs in an Incubator

Why eggs need turning

A broody hen shifts her eggs many times a day. In the first two weeks turning stops the developing embryo from sticking to the shell membrane and helps it use the egg white. Eggs that are not turned hatch poorly, and chicks that do hatch are often weak or badly positioned.

How often to turn

• By hand: at least 3 times a day, ideally 5. Use an odd number so the eggs spend alternate nights on different sides.
• Automatic turner: usually every 1–2 hours, tilting about 45° each way. This is more than you can manage by hand and gives better hatches.

Mark eggs with X and O in pencil when turning by hand so you know which ones you have done. Tips in manual vs automatic incubators.

When to stop turning

Stopping turning is part of lockdown: raise humidity at the same time and keep the door closed. Our hatch date calculator gives the exact dates.

If your incubator is not turning the eggs

• Check the turner is switched on and the tray is locked onto the turning arm.
• Watch the tray position over an hour or two; the tilt is slow and easy to miss.
• If the motor has stopped, turn the eggs by hand 3–5 times a day until it is fixed.

IncubatorPro customers can contact us for warranty support.