Mike Clinton
Introduction to egg turning
Egg turning, also known as egg rotation, is a vital process in the incubation of eggs. It refers to the practice of regularly rotating the eggs during the incubation period to prevent the embryo from sticking to the inner membrane of the eggshell. This process also helps to ensure that the developing embryo receives adequate oxygen and nutrients, and that the temperature in the incubator is evenly distributed.
Importance of egg turning
Egg turning is a crucial step in the incubation process as it helps to ensure successful hatching. When eggs are not turned, the developing embryo may stick to the inner membrane of the eggshell, resulting in embryonic adhesions. This can cause the embryo to die, leading to a reduced hatchability rate. Additionally, without turning, the developing embryo may not receive enough oxygen, which can result in developmental abnormalities or death.
How often to turn the eggs
It is recommended to turn the eggs at least three times a day during the incubation period. However, turning the eggs an odd number of times per day is more effective as it ensures that the eggs are not in the same position at the same time each day. This is important because the developing embryo may become malpositioned if it remains in the same position for an extended period.
Benefits of egg turning
Egg turning has several benefits that contribute to successful hatching. These include:
Preventing embryonic adhesions
As previously mentioned, egg turning helps to prevent embryonic adhesions, ensuring that the embryo develops correctly and hatches successfully.
Enhancing oxygen flow in the egg
Egg rotation promotes the exchange of gases, ensuring that the developing embryo receives adequate oxygen and other nutrients.
Promoting even temperature distribution
Egg turning ensures that the temperature in the incubator is evenly distributed, which is essential for the proper development of the embryo.
Preventing malpositioning of the embryo
Egg turning helps to prevent the developing embryo from becoming malpositioned, which can lead to developmental abnormalities or death.
Improving hatchability rates
Regular egg turning has been shown to improve hatchability rates, resulting in more successful hatching outcomes.
Conclusion: egg turning best practices
In conclusion, egg turning is a vital process in incubating eggs. Regular egg turning helps to prevent embryonic adhesions, enhance oxygen flow, promote even temperature distribution, prevent malpositioning, and improve hatchability rates. To ensure the best hatching outcomes, it is recommended to turn eggs at least three times a day, an odd number of times, and consistently throughout the incubation period.