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Reproduction & Incubation

Reproduction in birds is a process that functions very efficiently in the natural world, but requires careful attention if artificial incubation is practiced. A well designed incubator is essential if good hatchability is expected.

Proper care of the breeder birds and careful collection and storage of the fertile hatching eggs will dramatically improve the chances for a successful hatch. The incubation environment must also be carefully controlled throughout the incubation process.

Successful incubation of eggs by the inexperienced poultryman can be accomplished if temperature, humidity, ventilation and turning of eggs are correctly conducted. The recommendations discussed in the following publications and discussions can help the amateur or experienced hatchery person obtain excellent results.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

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News

Filed Under: Agriculture, Commercial Horticulture, Apiculture: Honey Bee Health, Poultry, Forestry, Marine Resources January 29, 2024

BILOXI, Miss. -- Many cattle producers in Mississippi like Bobby Jones do not have access to a dedicated large-animal veterinarian.

Four chicks are pictured together.
Filed Under: Agricultural Economics, Poultry December 19, 2023

Mississippi’s poultry took an estimated 23% loss in value in 2023; though production was strong, a failure to meet the previous year’s record high prices was responsible for the hit. Poultry generated an estimated $3.1 billion to Mississippi agriculture in 2023, down from the $3.9 billion generated in 2022.

White eggs are pictured in a carton with chickens in the background.
Filed Under: Poultry April 25, 2023

Poultry is big business in Mississippi, and poultry producers are having to manage disease and high feed costs to produce the meat and eggs that Americans consume in great quantities. Poultry is the most consumed meat in the U.S., according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, followed by beef and then pork. Eggs are also popular, with Americans eating close to 250 eggs per person each year.

Success Stories

A woman, smiling, holding a 4-H flag and 4-H trophy and standing in front of several 4-H plaques affixed to the wall.
Volume 9 Number 3

She grew up in the 4-H youth development program in Indiana, and her husband was in Ohio 4-H. Fast-forward a few years, and Inez Saum became a volunteer leader for Mississippi 4-H.

A man standing inside in front of the Southern AgCredit wordmark on a wall.
Volume 9 Number 2

The 4-H Poultry Chain Project regularly receives generous donations from organizations across the state, but the project has never received a donation quite like Southern AgCredit’s pledge of $25,000 over 5 years.

A man stands behind a piece of machinery.
Volume 2 Number 3

Extension helps Okolona producer improve profitability and maintain healthy birds

Joe Ellis knew almost nothing about chickens when he began raising them for Peco Foods, Inc., in 2008.

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