Hatching Coturnix quail eggs using an incubator is one of the most rewarding and straightforward ways to raise poultry at home. This guide will help ensure you are fully prepared for a successful hatch.
Incubation Timeline
Coturnix quail eggs typically hatch in 18 days but may hatch as early as 16 days or as late as 20 days, depending on incubator quality.
Incubator Settings
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Temperature: 99.5°F throughout the 18-day incubation period.
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Humidity: 45% for days 1-14, then increase to 65-75% for the final three days.
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Egg Turning: Rotate eggs for days 1-14, then stop turning from day 15 onward.
Step 1: Setting Up the Incubator
Selecting the right incubator is key to a high hatch rate. Look for features such as:
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A thermostat-controlled heat source
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A humidity control system
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A fan for air circulation
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An automatic egg turner (ensure it accommodates small quail eggs)
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A digital display for temperature, humidity, and countdown timer
Expert Tip:
Avoid incubators prone to temperature fluctuations, as quail eggs are delicate. Brinsea or Borotto incubators are highly recommended for consistent results.
Pre-Incubation Checklist:
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Set up the incubator 24 hours before placing eggs inside to stabilize the environment.
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Keep it in a draft-free room, away from windows and direct sunlight.
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Ensure the incubator is in a safe location, away from children and pets.
Step 2: Preparing & Setting the Eggs
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Shipped Eggs: Allow eggs to rest for 24 hours at room temperature before incubation. This helps the yolk settle and prevents cracking when exposed to humidity.
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Collected Eggs: Only incubate clean eggs; do not wash them.
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Mark the Shells: Use a soft pencil to mark an "X" on one side and an "O" on the other to track turning.
Step 3: Incubation (Days 1-14)
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Manual Turning: If not using an automatic turner, rotate the eggs at least every 8 hours.
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Maintain Temperature & Humidity: Keep temperature at 99.5°F and humidity at 45%.
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Minimize Incubator Opening: Frequent opening causes temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Step 4: Candle the Eggs (Optional)
Candling quail eggs is a popular method for monitoring embryo development, but it’s not strictly necessary for a successful hatch. By shining a light through the egg, candling allows you to check for proper air cell growth, embryo movement, and fertility. If you choose to candle, doing so on day 7 and day 14 can provide useful insights into egg viability.
However, many homesteaders, including us at Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm, prefer to skip candling. With proper humidity and temperature management, embryos will develop just fine without interference. Additionally, skipping candling reduces handling stress and minimizes the risk of accidental damage. Whether or not you candle, maintaining optimal incubation conditions is the key to a successful hatch.
Step 5: Lockdown (Days 15-18)
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Stop Turning the Eggs: Remove or turn off the automatic turner.
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Increase Humidity: Raise to 65-75% to aid hatching.
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Do Not Open the Incubator: This can disrupt the hatching process.
Step 6: Hatch Day
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Chicks usually hatch quickly and with little difficulty.
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Remove dry chicks from the incubator every 24 hours to prevent overcrowding and excess humidity.
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Move hatched chicks to a brooder to keep them warm and safe.
Step 7: Cleaning & Maintenance
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After all chicks have hatched, clean and disinfect the incubator.
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Use a 1:10 bleach/water solution for sanitizing.
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance to ensure the incubator is ready for future hatches.
Final Thoughts
Successfully incubating Coturnix quail eggs comes down to precision, patience, and preparation. Maintaining stable temperature and humidity levels is essential for a high hatch rate. Each incubation cycle provides an opportunity to fine-tune your process and improve results over time.
Once the chicks hatch, their transition to the brooder is just as crucial. Providing warmth, food, and a safe environment ensures they thrive in their first few weeks of life.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced breeder, the journey of hatching quail eggs is both educational and rewarding. By following these guidelines, you can confidently hatch strong, healthy chicks and enjoy the incredible experience of raising Coturnix quail.