Chook Me!

how can i hatch a chicken egg without an incubator?

i just came back from camping holiday at a farm and this morning i helped collect eggs from the chickens and we were allowed to keep 1 so i kept one that was warm when i picked it up. i've held it in my hands all day and only put it down for about 5 minutes at a time and i left it in a thick sock when i went out to play, it was still warm when i got back.is it possible to keep it without buying an incubator by wrapping it up in the airing cupboard or something?

Public Comments

1. Use an electric blanket.
2. Is it a fertilized egg? There's no point in keeping it if there won't be a baby chick. It's probably impossible to keep the egg the right temperature too without an incubator. Eggs are tricky to hatch.
3. i've heard of wrapping eggs in cotton wool and placing in the airing cupboard, anythings worth trying.
4. I'm sorry to say its extremely unlikely :( Eggs have to be turned at regular intervals, which is the other service that incubators provide, apart from the warmth. So unless you are prepared to turn the egg, approximately a 65% rotation every 20 minutes for the next three weeks, then I'm afraid its not going to happen. Sorry, but nice thought anyway.
5. it may be possible, but it depends how old it is inside because it usually takes about a month. so... use a eletric blanket and heating pads and hot water bottles thumbs up Judah
6. I think you need an incubator but you can try an electric blanket.
7. The only correct answer is for you to have the mother sit on it. This is the only option if you don't want to use an incubator. The temperature and humidity need to be perfect, and the eggs need to be rotated at the correct times as well. Someone mentioned using an electric blanket - this would not work at all.
8. It'll be very difficult! But have you actually considered what'll happen if you succeed? One little chick all on his own, and you don't have the equipment for him - its not a wise thing to do!