Duck eggs typically take about 28 days to hatch. This incubation period applies to most common duck breeds, such as Pekins and other mallard-derived ducks

. During incubation, the eggs should be kept at around 37.5°C (99.5°F) with appropriate humidity levels that start around 55% and increase to 65-80% as hatching approaches

. Exceptions include:

• Muscovy duck eggs, which take longer-about 33 to 35 days to hatch

• Bantam duck breeds, which may hatch slightly earlier, around 26 days

The hatching process after the duckling first "pips" (breaks the shell) can take up to 24 hours until the duckling fully emerges

. In summary:

• Most duck eggs: 28 days
• Muscovy duck eggs: 33–35 days
• Bantam duck eggs: ~26 days

Proper temperature, humidity, and turning of eggs during incubation are crucial for successful hatching