Incubation Guide Part 5: Post-Hatch Care for Chicks and Poultry

Congratulations—your chicks have finally hatched!
Whether you're raising chicks, ducklings, goslings, or quail, what you do in the first few hours after hatching is just as important as the incubation process. This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through essential post-hatch chick care to ensure a smooth and healthy transition from incubator to brooder.
✅ When to Move Chicks from the Incubator
Once your chicks hatch, it’s best to leave them inside the incubator for 6 to 12 hours, or until they are fully dry, fluffy, and able to stand steadily. During this time, they do not need food or water—their bodies are still absorbing nutrients from the yolk sac.
❗ Avoid moving chicks too soon. Wet or weak chicks are highly sensitive to cold and drafts and can quickly become ill or stressed.
✅ Prepare the Brooder in Advance
Your brooder setup should be ready before hatch day. Being prepared will help reduce stress—for both you and the chicks. Here's what to include:
Temperature: Keep the brooder at around 35°C (95°F) during the first week. Use a heat lamp or a brooder plate to maintain warmth.
Bedding: Start with paper towels for the first 1–2 days (non-slip and easy to monitor waste), then switch to soft pine shavings. Avoid newspaper or plastic, which can cause leg problems.
Food & Water: Provide high-quality chick starter feed and clean water in shallow drinkers to prevent drowning.
💡 Tip: Gently dip each chick’s beak into the water to help them learn where it is.
✅ How to Transfer Chicks Safely
When it’s time to move the chicks from the incubator to the brooder:
Gently lift each chick with two hands or a clean, soft towel.
Transfer in small groups to avoid overcrowding or chilling.
Check for signs of distress such as limping, curled toes, or weakness. Weak chicks may need extra care.
📝 If you're seeing deformities or weak chicks, refer to our guide: Common Chick Issues and How to Help
✅ Clean and Sanitize Your Incubator
Once all chicks have been moved, it’s important to thoroughly clean and disinfect the incubator:
Remove eggshells, unhatched eggs, and any organic debris.
Wash trays and accessories with warm water and non-toxic disinfectant.
Let everything air-dry completely before storing.
⚠️ Proper cleaning helps prevent bacteria growth and ensures a healthier environment for future hatches.
✅ Monitor the First 48 Hours Closely
Newly hatched chicks are fragile. Keep a close eye on them during the first two days:
Check temperature and humidity in the brooder regularly.
Observe whether chicks are eating, drinking, and moving comfortably.
Watch for signs of stress like loud, constant chirping, huddling in corners, or lethargy.
Healthy chicks will explore their surroundings, peck at food, drink water, rest briefly, and respond to touch or sound.
🌱 Final Thoughts
The first 48 hours after hatching are vital to your chicks’ health and survival. With the right temperature, a clean brooder, and attentive care, your chicks will have a strong start to life—whether you're raising poultry as a family project or on a small farm.