Chicken eggs typically take about 21 days to hatch after incubation begins. During the first 18 days, the eggs should be turned several times daily to prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell. Turning is stopped on day 18, and humidity is increased to help the chick hatch. Around day 18, the chick positions itself for hatching, and by day 20, it begins "pipping," or breaking into the air sac inside the egg. The actual hatching process usually occurs on day 21, though it can take several hours for the chick to fully emerge. Some chicks may hatch a day or two earlier or later, and if no hatching occurs by day 23, it is unlikely to happen
. In summary:
- Incubation period: about 21 days
- Turning eggs: several times daily for the first 18 days
- Stop turning: day 18
- Increase humidity: days 18–21
- Hatching begins: around day 20 (pipping)
- Chick emerges: usually day 21, can take 5–24 hours
- Possible variance: hatching can occur 1–2 days early or late
