Duck School · Hatching
4 min guide
Hatching eggs after posting: the first 48 hours
A calm first-day checklist for posted hatching eggs, before you start an incubation.
Clear, practical starting points from Alford Ducks. Every flock and set-up is different, so ask a qualified vet or experienced professional if something does not feel right.
Unpack gently and keep a simple record
Open the parcel carefully, note how the eggs arrived and let us know promptly if there is a problem. Avoid shaking, washing or handling them more than you need to.
Give the journey a little respect
Posted eggs have been moved and turned in transit. Let them settle in a calm, suitable place before incubation, following the guidance for your incubator and your own hatching plan.
Set expectations honestly
A careful first 48 hours is worthwhile, but it cannot remove the variables in hatching. Fertility, handling, transport, incubation and aftercare all affect the outcome.