The object of successful incubation is to match as closely as possible the conditions the egg would experience under a broody mother.
This includes constant temperature, movement of the eggs, and moisture. This varies amongst the different species of poultry and also depends on the breed.
Chickens
Length of incubation in days: 20-21
Incubation Temp: 38-390C
Relative humidity: 60%
Cooling of eggs daily: 10-15 minutes on days 7-18
Sprinkling with water: warm water during cooling
Number of times turned daily: Twice up to day 18
Length of hatching: 1-2 days
Ducks
Length of incubation in days: 28-33
Incubation Temp: 390C
Relative humidity: 70%
Cooling of eggs daily: While turning
Sprinkling with water: Warm water
Number of times turned daily: Twice on day 2-26
Length of hatching: 2-3 days
Geese
Length of incubation in days: 28-35
Incubation Temp: 390C
Relative humidity: 75%
Cooling of eggs daily: Cooled for 15 mins
Sprinkling with water: Soaked for 30 seconds in hot water (380C)
Number of times turned daily: Thrice, at regular hours, up to day 25
Length of hatching: 2-3 days, high humidity
Turkeys
Length of incubation in days: 27.5-29
Incubation Temp: 380C
Relative humidity: 60%
Cooling of eggs daily: cooled once
Sprinkling with water: twice
Number of times turned daily: twice
Length of hatching: 2-3 days high humidity