Gearing Up for Spring & Chicken Hatching Season

Spring is right around the corner, and if you raise chickens, you already know what that means: longer days, fresh starts, and hatching season in full swing. Whether you’re incubating eggs, welcoming broody hens, or just shaking off winter’s chill, a little prep now makes the whole season smoother (and way more fun).

Here’s how to gear up for spring and get ready for a successful hatching season.

1. Spring Clean the Coop & Brooder Area

Before eggs start pipping, it’s time to reset.

• Remove old bedding and deep clean the coop

• Disinfect nest boxes and roosts

• Refresh bedding with clean pine shavings or straw

• Check ventilation (spring moisture can cause mold fast)

A clean environment = healthier hens and stronger chicks.

2. Inspect & Prep Your Incubator

Dust off that incubator—it’s showtime.

• Test temperature and humidity a few days before setting eggs

• Calibrate your thermometer and hygrometer

• Check fans, turning mechanisms, and seals

• Stock up on distilled water if your unit needs it

Pro tip: Run a “dry test hatch” without eggs for 24 hours to make sure everything stays stable.

3. Set Up a Chick-Ready Brooder

You’ll thank yourself later if this is done before hatch day.

Make sure you have:

• A secure brooder with no drafts

• Heat plate or heat lamp (tested and safe)

• Chick starter feed

• Shallow waterers (marbles help prevent drowning)

• Paper towels for the first few days (then switch to bedding)

Bonus points if it’s already in a quiet, low-stress area.

4. Support Hens Naturally

Spring is hard-working season for your flock.

• Offer extra protein (like dried mealworms or scrambled eggs)

• Provide free-choice calcium for laying hens

• Add herbs like oregano, thyme, or garlic to support immunity

• Make sure fresh water is always available

Healthy hens = stronger eggs = better hatch rates.

5. Plan Your Hatch Schedule

It’s easy to get carried away (ask me how I know).

• Decide how many chicks you realistically have space for

• Stagger hatches if needed

• Label eggs by date and breed

• Keep a simple hatch log (temps, humidity, hatch rate)

A little organization keeps spring from turning into chaos.

6. Think Ahead to Spring Weather

Spring can be unpredictable.

• Prepare for cold snaps even after chicks hatch

• Have backup heat options ready

• Protect chicks from damp, windy conditions

• Slowly introduce older chicks to outdoor temps

Slow and steady always wins.

Spring hatching season is equal parts science, patience, and pure magic. There’s nothing quite like watching that first chick zip its shell and step into the world. With a little prep now, you’ll be set up for a calm, joyful, and successful season—both for you and your flock.

Here’s to warm days, fluffy chicks, and a coop full of life 💛