A turkey egg typically takes about 28 days to hatch in an incubator or under a broody turkey, though hatch can occur anywhere from day 27 to day 30 depending on conditions.
Key factors that influence the exact hatch day
- Temperature and humidity: Stable temps near 99.5°F (37.5°C) and gradually rising humidity, especially during the last days, support a reliable hatch window.
- Egg handling and turning: Regular turning through day 25 helps embryo development; stopping turns during lockdown (days 26–28) supports hatching readiness.
- Breed size and individual variation: Some smaller or “midget” turkey breeds may hatch slightly earlier; others may push toward day 30 under suboptimal conditions.
Practical notes
- Expect the first poults to start pipping around day 28, with most completing hatch within 24 hours after the first pip, though occasional delays can occur.
- Lockdown and nesting prep should align with Day 26–28, increasing humidity to help the chicks emerge and dry after hatch.
If you’re planning or troubleshooting
- Use an incubator with reliable temperature control and a consistent humidity strategy; avoid rapid temperature changes that can stress embryos.
- When the first pips are heard, prepare the brooder and keep the incubator closed during the hatch window to reduce heat and humidity loss.
Bottom line: typical incubation is 28 days, with most hatch completing within about 24 hours after the first pips, but individual eggs may hatch from day 27 to day 30 depending on conditions.
