How long do chicken eggs take to incubate?

Chicken eggs typically take 21 days to hatch when incubated at the correct temperature (99.5°F / 37.5°C). Slight variations in temperature can shift hatch day by 1–2 days.

What is lockdown and when should it start?

Lockdown is the final phase of incubation — usually the last 3 days — when you stop turning the eggs, increase humidity to around 65–70%, and avoid opening the incubator. For chickens this begins on day 18.

Can I use this calculator for wild bird eggs?

Yes. Use the "Custom" option and enter the known incubation period for that species. Incubation periods for wild birds vary widely, from about 11 days for some songbirds to over 75 days for kiwi.

What if my eggs hatch a day early or late?

Minor variation of 1–2 days is normal and depends on incubation temperature, humidity, and egg age. Eggs incubated slightly above optimal temperature tend to hatch earlier; below optimal, later.

When should I first candle the eggs?

Most keepers first candle between days 7 and 10, when blood vessels and a developing embryo become visible. A second candling around day 14–18 helps identify any non-viable eggs before lockdown.

Does the calculator account for egg turning?

The calculator tracks time and milestones. Turning typically stops 3 days before the hatch date (at lockdown). The milestone timeline shows you exactly when to stop turning for each species.

Egg Incubation Calculator

Select a bird species and set date to instantly see the expected hatch date, days remaining, and stage-by-stage incubation milestones.

Incubation Settings

Bird Species

Set Date (when eggs were placed in incubator)

Common Incubation Periods

Species	Days	Temp (F)
Chicken	21	99.5
Duck (Mallard)	28	99.5
Muscovy Duck	35	99.5
Turkey	28	99.5
Goose	30	99.5
Quail (Coturnix)	17	99.5
Guinea Fowl	27	99.5
Ostrich	42	97.0

Select a species, enter the set date, and click Calculate.

Summary

The Egg Incubation Calculator helps poultry keepers and bird breeders determine when their eggs will hatch based on the incubation start date and species. Different bird species require different incubation periods — chickens need 21 days while geese can take up to 35 days. Knowing the exact hatch date helps you plan lockdown (when to stop turning eggs and raise humidity), monitor development milestones, and prepare the brooder in time.

How it works

Select the bird species or enter a custom incubation period in days.
Enter the date you placed the eggs in the incubator (set date).
The calculator instantly shows the expected hatch date.
View a progress bar showing how far along the incubation is.
Check the milestone timeline for key events like candling and lockdown days.

Use cases

Plan the hatch date before setting chicken, duck, or turkey eggs.
Track multiple batches in the incubator simultaneously.
Know exactly when to stop turning eggs and begin lockdown.
Schedule candling sessions to check embryo development.
Prepare the brooder and supplies ahead of the hatch date.
Monitor incubation progress for exotic or rare bird species.
Estimate hatch dates for a school or educational hatch project.
Coordinate hatching schedules across a flock or hatchery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-05-29 · Reviewed by Nham Vu