Chook Me!

Is this ok to use or what?

O...kay here it goes, I made a homemade incubator, the heat source is a heating pad, but the only thermometor I have is for testing body tempurature. Will this be ok to use or should I get another thermometor? (I DON'T have any eggs right now, but I plan to get a pigeon one from a friend) I've spent almost a year doing my homework on this so I've got a rough idea of what to look for. Anyone got a decent answer? thanks!

Public Comments

1. The problem with thermometers for body temp is that they rise to the measured temperature and then stop. They will not show a fall in temperature. I would look for a cooking type thermometer if you can't find a pet thermometer. The ones that I use for keeping my snake tank at a good temperature was fairly cheap. I would look into the pet shops or watch the adverts for a used one. You can always check a used one with ice and body temperature.
2. I am impressed with your creativeness. I would not suggest using that thermometer though. Even on the body they are not exactly accurate and some times completly off which would worry me in regards to your little ones. Many kudos on all of your research it sounds as though you put alot of work into this. Thats great!! There are several thermometers that you can pick up from pretty much any pet store at a very reasonable cost. I know with my snakes, lizards and turtles the thermometer was the cheapest buy for the tank. Best of Luck!!
3. For positive results-get anhatching thermometer. It has guides on it showing the progress and what temp. it should be when. Might as well get a book too. Neither of these cost much and things will be more accurate.
4. heating pads do not provide even heat. you need to get an incubator. Otherwise youll end up with eggs that dont hatch or deformities.