A hen typically takes 21 days to hatch an egg naturally. The process begins once the hen starts incubating her eggs, which she does by sitting on them to keep them warm. During this period, the hen will turn the eggs regularly to ensure they are evenly heated. The temperature needs to be consistent, typically between 99 to 102°F (37-39°C), for successful hatching.
The 21-day incubation period is crucial for the embryo’s development inside the egg, and once the time is up, the chick will begin to break through the shell, a process known as “pipping.” After hatching, the chick will remain under the hen’s care for warmth and protection as it grows.
