Incubator is a machine that provides the right temperature, humidity, and ventilation for hatching eggs without the help of a mother hen.
Modern incubators can hatch hundreds or thousands of eggs at once. Farmers use them to save time and increase chick production. Small-scale farmers often use solar or electric incubators for chicken, quail, or duck eggs.
Large hatcheries use automated systems that turn eggs, control heat, and maintain steady airflow . Some of the most popular and big hatcheries in Kenya are Kenchic, Isinya, Supreme chicks, Uzima among others. A well-managed incubator improves hatchability and reduces losses caused by poor handling or disease.
See also: Hatchery, Brooding, Grow-out, Fertile eggs, Poultry farming