Incubator Recommendations for Duck Eggs

[sarahgray18]

Hello! I was hoping to get some recommendations on incubators for duck eggs. I plan on getting a dozen Indian Runner hatching eggs in the spring, and I have never hatched ducklings before. If you could please share the brand/model name of the incubators you have had success with before, it would be greatly appreciated! I have done a lot of googling but keep finding mixed reviews on everything.

I'm looking for something that will hold 12 duck eggs on their side. In addition, I would like it to be able to accurately keep the temperature and humidity levels, allow me to enter the hatch date, and something that will automatically rotate the eggs.

 

[casportpony]

What's your price range?

This is a rock-solid incubator
https://www.strombergschickens.com/...KuvokoWOHWSNA-f4GkY-mtFkD7KjfZiRoCczcQAvD_BwE

 

[KathiQuacks]

The only ‘bator I’ve used is the NR360. I’d probably rate it a 7-8/10. It has everything you’ve listed, but it’s a bit pricy & a bit flawed.

 

[cheezenkwackers]

In my opinion Brinsea is the best brand. I have had great success with them.

 

[sarahgray18]

What's your price range?

This is a rock-solid incubator
https://www.strombergschickens.com/...KuvokoWOHWSNA-f4GkY-mtFkD7KjfZiRoCczcQAvD_BwE

Thanks for your reply! If possible, I was hoping for something under $300 CAD (~$210 USD). I don't plan on doing this very often, so I'm hesitant to spend a lot. However, I also don't want to go too cheap and experience issues with hatch rate, etc.

 

[sarahgray18]

The only ‘bator I’ve used is the NR360. I’d probably rate it a 7-8/10. It has everything you’ve listed, but it’s a bit pricy & a bit flawed.

Thank you! I've looked into this one a bit and seen mixed reviews. May I ask what flaws you've experienced with it?

 

[KathiQuacks]

Thank you! I've looked into this one a bit and seen mixed reviews. May I ask what flaws you've experienced with it?

Biggest flaw is its lack of insulation. I used a calibrated thermometer and found the temperature would fluctuate as much as +/- 2°F. But you can cover the incubator with a towel or blanket to help counter it (just keep the air vent uncovered).

I also found my largest duck eggs to be too big for the auto turner, but you shouldn’t have that issue with Runner eggs.

 

[My15Ducks]

I have had success with a Vevor incubator. It is fairly cheap but has had a few issues.

 

[Canadian Wind]

I really like my Maticoopx, and got it for about $250 CA last year. Thinking of getting another this year (I hatch a lot!).

With any incubator, you should always get a separate thermometer/hygrometer to double check temps and humidity. I got a digital one used for reptile enclosures.

 

[sarahgray18]

I have had success with a Vevor incubator. It is fairly cheap but has had a few issues.

Thank you! What issues have you experienced with it? I'm trying to be as prepared as possible.