The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: manian on May 13, 2011, 09:41:19 pm

Title: first turkey hatched
Post by: manian on May 13, 2011, 09:41:19 pm
well today we had our first turkey egg hatch........ ;D
how long do we leave him/her in the incubator (its a joint hatcher/bator). i've read differing oppinions.
also how long before they have their first feed..... it hatched at 3pm so still a bit damp
we've sorted heat lamp etc ready for their first move.......
also how long do we wait before getting rid of the other eggs, (that may not be fertile/viable)
Mx
Title: Re: first turkey hatched
Post by: Beewyched on May 13, 2011, 09:59:19 pm
Congratulations
Personally, I would leave it in the incy for up to a day to dry-out fully & hopefully have some company to move with.  Possibly may not feed for up to 24 hours, but make sure it knows where to find the feed & especially where the drinking water is.
I would allow up to 2 more days to see if there's anything happening with the other eggs.
Hope you see some more hatchings soon ;D
Title: Re: first turkey hatched
Post by: Hermit on May 14, 2011, 07:52:04 am
Congrats mine are hatching as I type, leave them in there for a day then we move them into a brooder area with a lamp. Chick crumbs available ( dry as they tend to walk over it and get clogged up on wet crumb)and a special water drinker for chicks as they can die in a saucer of water! We are experimenting with broody turkeys at the moment with three on nests now, makes for a cheaper leccy bill but we have to watch our back with a very protective stag.  ::)