ADVERTISEMENT
Step 1: Prepare the Water Bottle
Cut the Plastic: Start by cleaning and sanitizing the water bottle. Carefully cut the top off the bottle to create a larger opening. This opening will allow access for placing eggs and managing the internal environment.
Create an Air Ventilation Opening: Cut small holes in the bottle on the sides opposite the opening. This will provide ventilation for your incubator and help manage humidity and temperature.
Step 2: Setting Up the Heating System
Insert the Bulb: Secure a light bulb socket at the top of the water bottle (or where you prefer) and insert the light bulb. Make sure that it can be quickly accessed to replace or adjust it as needed.
Electrical Setup: Ensure that the wiring is safely positioned to avoid any electrical hazards. If you are not familiar with electrical work, ask for assistance.
Step 3: Egg Placement
Egg Tray Installation: Place an egg tray or foam at the bottom of the bottle. Ensure that the eggs can fit snugly into the tray without rolling around. You may use a small cardboard or plastic mesh tray if you can’t find one.
Turning Mechanism: If you’d like, add a simple mechanism for turning the eggs. This could be as easy as using a stick or a hinged piece that can gently tilt the tray for turning.
Step 4: Monitoring Temperature and Humidity
Place Thermometer and Hygrometer: Use a thermometer and hygrometer to regularly monitor the internal conditions. Secure them to the interior wall of the incubator if possible, so they come into easy view.
Step 5: Adding Water for Humidity
Water Containers: Put small, shallow containers filled with water inside the incubator. This will help maintain the necessary humidity levels. Make sure they’re easily accessible for refills!
Step 6: Insulation (Optional)
Insulation Material: If you want to improve temperature retention, consider wrapping the outside of the water bottle with a thermal insulation material such as Styrofoam or bubble wrap. Just ensure it does not obstruct ventilation.
Step 7: Final Checks Before Adding Eggs
Test the Incubator: Before placing your precious eggs inside, power on the light bulb and monitor the temperature and humidity levels for 24 hours. Adjust the bulb’s height or wattage as needed to reach the ideal conditions.
Incubation Process
Now that your incubator is set up, you can add your fertilized eggs!
continued on next page
ADVERTISEMENT
