CAN HEN HATCH THE EGGS OF DUCK AND TURKEY? IF YES, HOW
CAN HEN HATCH THE EGGS OF DUCK AND TURKEY? IF YES, HOW
Yes, a hen can hatch the eggs of a duck or a turkey! Here’s how it can work:
1. Incubation Conditions: Ensure that the eggs are viable and fertilized. The incubation period for duck eggs is around 28 days, while turkey eggs take about 28 days as well. Duck and turkey eggs require a temperature of about 99.5°F (37.5°C) and humidity of about 55-60%.
2. Nesting: Place the duck or turkey eggs in the hen’s nest when she starts brooding (sitting on her eggs to keep them warm). Make sure the hen has a comfortable and safe nesting area.
3. Care and Monitoring: The hen will do most of the work, keeping the eggs warm and turning them periodically. Make sure to monitor the temperature and humidity levels, and provide the hen with food and water.
4. Hatching: After the incubation period, the eggs should begin to hatch. The hen will instinctively care for the chicks, but you may need to help with feeding and ensuring they have a safe and warm environment.
While it’s not a common practice, it can be a fascinating experience to see a hen raising ducklings or poults (baby turkeys).