It typically takes about 21 days for chicken eggs to hatch. During incubation, eggs should be turned regularly for the first 18 days and then left alone for the last 3 days to allow chicks to hatch. The hatching process usually starts around day 18, when chicks prepare to break out of the shell, which can take several hours to a full day for each chick to emerge. If eggs haven't started hatching by day 23, they likely won't hatch at all. Other birds have varied incubation periods; for example, smaller birds may take 10 to 14 days while larger birds may take up to a month.

Key Details on Chicken Egg Hatching

• Eggs are turned 3-5 times a day for the first 18 days to prevent the chick from sticking to the shell.
• Turning stops on day 18, and humidity is increased to about 65-70% to help chicks hatch.
• "Pipping" is when chicks start breaking the shell with their egg tooth to get air.
• Hatchlings typically take 5-7 hours to fully emerge but can take up to 24 hours.
• After hatching, chicks dry off and are moved to a brooder with a warm environment.

Variation by Bird Species

• Chicken eggs: 20-21 days.
• Duck eggs: About 28 days.
• Goose eggs: About 30 days.
• Smaller bird eggs: 10-14 days.
• Larger bird eggs: Three weeks to a month.

This timeframe is relevant for eggs that are fertilized and properly incubated under optimal conditions.