Canaries are known for their beautiful songs and vibrant colors, but sometimes their eggs don’t hatch. This can be a source of frustration for canary owners, who may wonder why their birds are not reproducing successfully. There are several reasons why canary eggs fail to hatch, and understanding these factors can help improve the chances of successful breeding.
One common reason canary eggs don’t hatch is infertility. Both male and female canaries can be infertile, and this can be due to a variety of factors. Age, stress, nutritional deficiencies, and health issues can all contribute to infertility in canaries. If a pair of canaries is not able to produce viable eggs, it may be necessary to find a new mate for the bird or consult a veterinarian for further assistance.
In some cases, canary eggs may not hatch due to improper incubation. Canaries are known for being finicky when it comes to breeding, and they have specific requirements for egg incubation. Temperature, humidity, and turning the eggs regularly are all important factors in successfully hatching canary eggs. If these conditions are not met, the eggs may not develop properly and will not hatch.
Another reason why canary eggs may not hatch is genetic abnormalities. Like all living creatures, canaries can carry genetic defects that may prevent their eggs from developing properly. This can be a result of inbreeding or genetic mutations. Breeders should be mindful of the birds’ genetic history and avoid breeding individuals with known genetic issues to improve the chances of successful hatching.
In conclusion, there are several reasons why canary eggs may not hatch, including infertility, improper incubation, and genetic abnormalities. By addressing these factors and ensuring optimal conditions for breeding, canary owners can increase their chances of successfully hatching canary eggs. It is important to remember that breeding canaries can be a complex process, and seeking advice from experienced breeders or avian veterinarians can be beneficial.
Insufficient Incubation Temperature
Why canary eggs do not hatch can be attributed to various factors, and one of them is insufficient incubation temperature. This refers to the temperature at which the eggs are kept during the incubation period.
Canary eggs require a specific temperature range for successful hatching. If the temperature is too low, the embryos may not develop properly or may develop at a much slower rate. Conversely, if the temperature is too high, it can lead to the death of the embryos.
It is crucial to maintain a consistent and appropriate temperature throughout the incubation process. The ideal temperature for canary eggs is generally around 37.5 degrees Celsius (99.5 degrees Fahrenheit). Deviations from this optimal temperature can significantly impact the hatching success.
Insufficient incubation temperature can occur due to various reasons. In some cases, the incubator may not be functioning correctly, leading to temperature fluctuations. Additionally, inadequate insulation or poor positioning of the incubator can result in heat loss, causing a drop in overall temperature.
In order to prevent insufficient incubation temperature, it is important to regularly monitor the temperature levels in the incubator. Using a reliable thermometer and ensuring proper insulation and positioning of the incubator can help maintain a consistent temperature. If the temperature is consistently outside the ideal range, adjustments to the incubator or the incubation environment may be necessary.
By addressing the issue of insufficient incubation temperature, canary breeders can increase the chances of successful hatching and ensure the healthy development of canary eggs.
Lack of Genetic Compatibility
One of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch is due to a lack of genetic compatibility. In order for an egg to successfully hatch, both the male and female canaries must have compatible genes. Genetic compatibility relates to the ability of the genes of the male and female to work together and produce viable offspring.
When the genes of the male and female canaries are not compatible, it can lead to abnormalities in the development of the eggs, making them unable to hatch. This lack of compatibility can result in the failure of the embryos to develop properly or even prevent fertilization from occurring in the first place.
Genetic compatibility is important for the survival of the species, as it ensures that offspring are healthy and have the best chance of survival. In the case of canaries, where breeding for specific traits such as color or song is common, genetic compatibility becomes even more crucial.
When attempting to breed canaries, it is essential to select breeding pairs that are genetically compatible. Breeders often use pedigree information and genetic testing to ensure that the potential breeding pair has compatible genes. This helps to increase the likelihood of successful hatching and healthy offspring.
| Reasons for canary eggs not hatching: | |
| Lack of proper incubation conditions | Incompatible genes between breeding pair |
| Infertile eggs | Presence of diseases or infections |
Poor Nesting Conditions
Poor nesting conditions can be one of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch. The environment in which the canaries build their nests plays a crucial role in the successful incubation of the eggs. If the nesting conditions are not optimal, it can lead to the failure of the eggs to hatch.
Inadequate Nest Structure: A poorly constructed nest can have a negative impact on the hatchability of canary eggs. If the nest is not properly built, it may not provide enough insulation and protection for the eggs. This can make it difficult for the eggs to maintain the required temperature and humidity levels, which are essential for successful incubation.
Inappropriate Nest Location: The location of the nest can also affect the hatchability of canary eggs. Nesting in an area with excessive noise, disturbance, or temperature fluctuations can cause stress to the parent birds, resulting in abandonment of the nest or improper incubation. Additionally, placing the nest in an area with poor ventilation or extreme temperatures can also negatively impact the hatching process.
Insufficient Nest Materials: Canaries require specific nest materials to create a suitable environment for their eggs. Lack of appropriate nesting materials, such as soft grass, feathers, or fine twigs, can hinder the canaries’ ability to build a proper nest. This can result in an unstable nest structure or inadequate insulation for the eggs.
Predator Threats: Canary eggs are vulnerable to predator attacks. If the nesting area is not adequately protected or if there are predators present in the vicinity, it can increase the risk of egg predation. The presence of predators can cause stress to the parent birds, leading to the abandonment of the nest and the failure of the eggs to hatch.
By addressing these poor nesting conditions, canary breeders can increase the chances of successful hatching and ensure the health and well-being of the canary chicks.
Improper Nutrition
One of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch is improper nutrition. It is important for canaries to have a balanced and nutritious diet in order to produce healthy and viable eggs.
Canaries require a diet that is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as high-quality seeds and pellets specifically formulated for their nutritional needs. If canaries are not provided with a proper diet, it can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can affect their reproductive health.
Inadequate calcium intake is often a result of improper nutrition and can cause problems with eggshell formation. Calcium is essential for the development of strong and healthy eggshells. If a female canary does not receive enough calcium, she may lay eggs with thin shells or eggs that are unable to hatch.
Signs of improper nutrition in canaries:
- Weight loss or poor weight gain
- Dull or scruffy feathers
- Decreased activity or lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Inability to lay eggs or eggs with thin shells
If you suspect that improper nutrition may be the reason why your canary’s eggs are not hatching, it is important to consult with a veterinarian who specializes in avian health. They can provide guidance on the proper diet and nutritional supplements to ensure the health of your canary and increase the likelihood of successful breeding.
Presence of Diseases or Infections
One of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch is the presence of diseases or infections. Just like any other living organism, canary birds are susceptible to various diseases, which can have serious consequences for their reproductive health.
Some common diseases that can affect canary eggs include bacterial or viral infections. These infections can be transmitted from the parents to the eggs or through contaminated nesting materials. When eggs are infected, the developing embryos may not survive or may be weak and unable to hatch.
Another disease that can impact the hatching of canary eggs is fungal infection. Fungal pathogens can grow on the eggshell or inside the egg, leading to the death of the embryo. If the egg is infected with fungi, it may not be able to sustain the necessary conditions for the embryo to develop and hatch successfully.
Parasitic infections can also be a reason for canary eggs failing to hatch. Parasites like mites or lice can infest the nesting area or the parents, causing stress and affecting their ability to properly care for the eggs. This can result in unsuccessful hatching or even abandonment of the eggs.
It is important for canary owners to ensure a clean and hygienic environment for their birds to minimize the risks of diseases and infections. Regular cleaning of the nesting area, providing fresh materials, and proper hygiene practices can help reduce the chances of infection and increase the chances of successful hatching.
Egg Infertility
Infertility of canary eggs is one of the main reasons why they don’t hatch. There are several factors that can contribute to egg infertility, including:
- Poor nutrition: If the female canary is not receiving a balanced diet with proper nutrients, it can lead to infertility in the eggs. It is important to provide a diet that includes a variety of seeds, fruits, and vegetables to ensure optimal reproductive health.
- Age of the canary: As canaries age, their fertility can decline. Older canaries may have a lower success rate in producing viable eggs.
- Incompatibility with the mate: Sometimes, the female canary may not be compatible with her mate, resulting in infertile eggs. It is important to pair canaries that have a history of successful breeding together to increase the chances of fertility.
- Lack of proper nesting materials: The absence of sufficient nesting materials can also cause infertility in canary eggs. Canaries require materials such as soft nesting fibers, shredded paper, and feathers to construct a suitable nest.
- Environmental factors: External factors such as temperature and lighting conditions can affect egg fertility. Canaries prefer a stable and consistent environment for breeding.
- Health issues: Certain health issues, such as infections or diseases, can directly impact the fertility of canary eggs. Regular check-ups with a avian vet can help identify and address any underlying health problems.
It is important to address these factors to increase the chances of successful hatching in canary eggs. By providing a nutritious diet, ensuring compatible mating pairs, and creating an optimal environment, canary owners can improve the fertility of their eggs.
Disturbance or Stress
One of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch is due to disturbance or stress. When canaries are subjected to constant disturbance or stress, such as loud noises or frequent interruptions, it can disrupt the incubation process and lead to unsuccessful hatching.
During the incubation period, canary parents need a calm and quiet environment to successfully hatch their eggs. Any form of disturbance or stress can cause the parents to abandon the nest, leaving the eggs unattended. This can result in the eggs not receiving the necessary heat and moisture required for proper development.
In addition, stress can also affect the hormonal balance of the canary parents, leading to decreased fertility or poor egg quality. Stressors such as overcrowding, poor nutrition, or inadequate nesting materials can contribute to the overall stress levels of the birds and hinder successful hatching.
To ensure the best chances of hatching, it is important to provide a peaceful and stress-free environment for canary parents during the incubation period. Minimizing disturbances, providing a comfortable nesting area, and maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level can help promote successful hatching and increase the chances of healthy canary chicks.
Inadequate Breeding Experience
An important reason why canary eggs don’t hatch is inadequate breeding experience. Canaries, like any other bird species, require proper knowledge and skills to successfully breed and raise their young. Inexperienced canaries may lack the necessary instincts and behaviors required for successful incubation and hatching of their eggs.
Without prior breeding experience, canaries may not exhibit the correct nesting behaviors, such as building a suitable nest or properly incubating the eggs. They may also struggle with regulating the temperature and humidity levels inside the nest, which are crucial for embryonic development.
Lack of Nest Building Skills
Inexperienced canaries may not possess the necessary skills to build a proper nest for their eggs. Nest building is an instinctive behavior that canaries learn from watching their parents. Without this knowledge, they may construct a subpar nest that fails to protect the eggs and provide them with the necessary warmth. This can result in the eggs not hatching.
Ineffective Incubation Practices
Another issue with inexperienced canaries is their lack of knowledge regarding incubation practices. Incubation involves the canary consistently sitting on the eggs to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity levels. Inexperienced canaries may not understand the importance of this process or may not have the patience and perseverance required to sit on the eggs for extended periods. As a result, the eggs may not receive the necessary warmth and fail to hatch.
Overall, inadequate breeding experience can greatly hinder the hatching success of canary eggs. It is essential for canaries to have prior knowledge and skills in nest building and incubation in order to increase the chances of successful hatching.
Predation or Nest Destruction
One of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch is predation or nest destruction. Many different animals, such as snakes, rats, and various bird species, are known to prey on canary eggs. These predators view the eggs as a potential food source and will often go to great lengths to access the nest and consume the eggs.
In addition to predation, nest destruction can also play a role in the failure of canary eggs to hatch. Strong winds, heavy rainfalls, or other environmental factors can cause the canary’s nest to be damaged or destroyed, resulting in the loss of the eggs.
Therefore, it is crucial for canary owners to provide a safe and secure nesting environment for their birds. This can include using nesting boxes or cages with small entrance holes to prevent access by predators, as well as ensuring that the nest is protected from the elements. Taking these precautions can greatly increase the chances of canary eggs successfully hatching.
Furthermore, if predation or nest destruction is suspected to be the cause of failed hatchings, it may be necessary to relocate the nest or take steps to deter predators from accessing the canary’s nesting area. Regular monitoring of the nesting environment and implementing appropriate measures can help mitigate the risk of predation or nest destruction and increase the likelihood of successful hatchings.
Environmental Factors
There are several environmental factors that can contribute to the failure of canary eggs to hatch. Understanding these factors is crucial in ensuring the successful breeding and reproduction of canaries.
Temperature
Temperature plays a vital role in the development of canary eggs. If the temperature is too high or too low, it can negatively affect the development of the embryo inside the egg and prevent it from hatching. It is important to maintain a consistent and appropriate temperature in the breeding area to ensure successful hatching of canary eggs.
Humidity
Humidity levels can also impact the viability of canary eggs. If the humidity is too high, it can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria on the eggshell, which can harm the developing embryo. On the other hand, if the humidity is too low, it can cause the egg to dry out and become dehydrated, making it impossible for the embryo to survive and hatch. Maintaining optimal humidity levels in the breeding environment is crucial for the successful hatching of canary eggs.
Lighting
Lighting conditions can also affect the hatching of canary eggs. Canaries are sensitive to changes in light and require a specific light-dark cycle for their reproductive processes to be successful. Insufficient lighting or abrupt changes in lighting can disrupt their breeding behavior and prevent the eggs from hatching. Providing the appropriate lighting conditions and maintaining a consistent light-dark cycle is essential for canary egg hatchability.
Nesting Material
The choice and quality of nesting material can also impact the hatching success of canary eggs. Unsuitable or contaminated nesting material can lead to the growth of harmful microorganisms, which can infect the eggs and prevent them from hatching. Providing clean and appropriate nesting material is important in ensuring a healthy and safe environment for canaries to lay their eggs and raise their young. Regular cleaning and replacement of nesting material can help prevent the development of any harmful bacteria or fungi.
By taking into consideration these environmental factors, canary breeders can greatly improve the likelihood of successful hatching and ensure the health and vitality of the canary chicks.
Parental Neglect or Abandonment
One possible reason why canary eggs do not hatch is due to parental neglect or abandonment. In some cases, the parents may not be properly caring for the eggs, which can lead to unsuccessful hatching. This can happen if the parents are inexperienced or if they are simply not providing the necessary care and attention.
Parental neglect can occur if the parents do not consistently incubate the eggs at the proper temperature or if they do not rotate them regularly. The eggs need to be kept at a specific temperature and need to be turned regularly to ensure proper development. If the parents fail to do so, the eggs may not hatch.
Abandonment is another possible reason why canary eggs do not hatch. Sometimes, the parents may abandon the nest altogether, leaving the eggs unprotected and unable to survive. This can happen for various reasons, such as disturbances in the environment or if the parents feel threatened.
It is important for canary breeders to closely monitor the behavior of the parents and provide any necessary support or intervention to prevent neglect or abandonment. Ensuring that the parents have a comfortable and safe environment and providing them with proper nutrition can also help reduce the chances of neglect or abandonment.
In conclusion, parental neglect or abandonment can be one of the reasons why canary eggs do not hatch. It is crucial for breeders to pay close attention to the parents’ behavior and provide the necessary care and support to increase the chances of successful hatching.
Poor Quality or Freshness of Eggs
One of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch is due to the poor quality or freshness of the eggs. This can occur for several reasons.
Lack of proper nutrition
Canaries need a balanced diet to ensure healthy egg production. If the female canary isn’t getting the right nutrients, her eggs may not develop properly or may not be viable for hatching.
Older or stale eggs
If the canary eggs have been sitting for too long before incubation, they may lose their freshness and viability. It’s important to collect the eggs regularly and store them properly to maintain their quality.
Poor quality or freshness of eggs can be determined by visual inspection. A healthy and fertile egg should have a clean and smooth shell without any cracks or abnormalities. Fresh eggs also have a higher chance of successful hatching.
| Factors affecting egg quality and freshness | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Inadequate nutrition | Provide a well-balanced diet consisting of high-quality birdseed, fresh vegetables, and supplements if necessary. |
| Improper storage conditions | Collect eggs regularly and store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures and fluctuations. |
| Advanced age of breeding pair | Consider replacing older canaries with younger ones for better reproductive performance. |
By ensuring that the canaries receive proper nutrition and the eggs are stored correctly, the issue of poor quality or freshness can be minimized, increasing the chances of successfully hatching canary eggs.
Inbreeding Depression
Inbreeding depression can be one of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch. Inbreeding refers to the mating of closely related individuals, such as siblings or cousins. When canaries are bred within a small gene pool for many generations, it can lead to a reduction in genetic diversity.
This lack of genetic diversity can result in various detrimental effects, including decreased fertility, lower hatching success, and weaker offspring. Inbreeding depression occurs due to the accumulation of harmful recessive genes and the loss of beneficial alleles.
When canary eggs are fertilized by closely related individuals, there is a higher chance of inheriting two copies of harmful recessive genes, which can lead to developmental abnormalities or even embryonic death. These genetic abnormalities can prevent the eggs from developing normally and cause them to fail to hatch.
In addition to decreased fertility and hatching success, inbreeding depression can also result in weaker and less adaptable hatchlings. The reduced genetic diversity limits the ability of canaries to adapt to changing environments, making them more susceptible to diseases, parasites, and other detrimental factors.
To prevent inbreeding depression and increase the chances of successful egg hatching, canary breeders should aim to maintain a diverse and healthy gene pool. This can be achieved by introducing new bloodlines from outside sources, avoiding mating closely related individuals, and regularly culling birds with significant genetic defects.
Hormonal Imbalances
One of the reasons why canary eggs may not hatch is due to hormonal imbalances. Hormones play a crucial role in the reproductive cycle of birds, including canaries. When there is an imbalance in the hormonal levels of the female canary, it can affect the maturation and viability of the eggs.
Hormonal imbalances can be caused by various factors such as stress, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying health conditions. The female canary may not be producing enough of the necessary hormones for the eggs to develop properly, or there may be an excess of certain hormones that disrupt the normal development process.
Effect on Egg Development
When there is a hormonal imbalance, it can lead to a range of issues that prevent the eggs from hatching. One common problem is the lack of fertilization. If the hormone levels are not optimal, the female canary may not be receptive to mating or may not produce eggs that are capable of being fertilized.
Additionally, hormonal imbalances can affect the quality of the eggs themselves. The eggs may have thin and weak shells, making them more prone to breakage or damage. They may also lack the necessary nutrients for proper embryonic development, resulting in the eggs failing to hatch.
Treatment and Prevention
Addressing hormonal imbalances in canaries requires proper care and attention. Ensuring that the canary is in a stress-free environment with a balanced diet can help regulate hormonal levels. Providing a varied diet that includes essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamins can also promote healthy egg formation.
If a hormonal imbalance is suspected, it is important to consult a veterinarian. They can perform tests to identify any underlying issues and recommend appropriate treatments. Hormonal supplements or medications may be prescribed to help regulate the hormones and promote successful egg development.
In conclusion, hormonal imbalances can be one of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch. By understanding the causes and taking steps to address and prevent hormonal imbalances, canary owners can increase the chances of successful egg hatching and ensure the overall reproductive health of their birds.
Lack of Parental Care
One of the reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch is due to a lack of parental care. Canaries, like other birds, require proper care from their parents in order for the eggs to develop and hatch successfully. However, sometimes the parents may not provide the necessary care, leading to unsuccessful hatching.
Parental care is crucial for the development of the eggs, as the parents provide warmth, protection, and nourishment to the growing embryos. During incubation, the parents take turns sitting on the eggs to keep them at the optimal temperature. They also protect the eggs from predators and provide them with the necessary nutrients.
If the parents are inexperienced or unable to provide adequate care, the eggs may not receive the necessary warmth and protection, which can lead to their failure to hatch. Additionally, factors such as poor health or stress in the parents can also affect their ability to care for the eggs effectively.
In some cases, the parents may abandon the nest altogether, leaving the eggs exposed and vulnerable. This can occur due to various reasons, such as disturbance or interference from humans or other animals, or a lack of resources or suitable nesting sites.
To improve the chances of successful hatching, it is important to create a suitable environment for the canary parents. This includes providing a comfortable and secure nesting area, ensuring a balanced diet for the parents, and minimizing stress factors in their surroundings.
| Reasons why canary eggs don’t hatch: |
|---|
| Lack of Parental Care |
Question-answer:
Why don’t canary eggs hatch?
There are several reasons why canary eggs may not hatch. One common reason is that the eggs are infertile, meaning that they were not fertilized by a male canary. Another reason could be that the temperature and humidity levels in the incubation area were not suitable for egg development. Additionally, if the female canary did not provide proper care for her eggs, such as incubating them consistently or turning them regularly, they may fail to hatch. Finally, genetic abnormalities or health issues in either the male or female canary can also prevent the eggs from hatching.
How can I tell if a canary egg is infertile?
There are a few ways to determine if a canary egg is infertile. One method is to candle the eggs, which involves shining a bright light through the egg to see if there are any signs of development, such as blood vessels or movement. If the egg appears clear or has a small dark spot, it is likely infertile. Another method is to wait for the expected incubation period to pass without any signs of hatching. If the egg remains unchanged and does not emit any chirping sounds, it is probably infertile.
What should the temperature and humidity be for canary eggs to hatch?
The temperature and humidity levels for canary eggs to hatch successfully should be carefully regulated. The temperature should be maintained between 99.5 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.5-37.8 degrees Celsius). It is crucial to avoid temperature fluctuations as they can negatively affect the developing embryos. The humidity level should range from 40-50%, which can be achieved by placing a water tray near the eggs or using a specialized incubator. It is important to monitor these conditions closely to ensure proper egg development.
Can a lack of nest materials cause canary eggs to not hatch?
Yes, a lack of nest materials can prevent canary eggs from hatching. Female canaries use materials such as feathers, straw, and other soft items to line their nests and create a suitable environment for egg development. Without these materials, the eggs may not receive proper insulation or protection, leading to unsuccessful hatching. It is essential to provide nesting materials in the canary’s cage or breeding area to increase the chances of successful egg incubation.
Can health problems in canaries affect egg hatching?
Yes, health problems in canaries can significantly impact egg hatching. Both male and female canaries need to be in good health to produce viable eggs and successfully incubate them. Any conditions that affect the reproductive system, such as infections or hormonal imbalances, can lead to infertility or unsuccessful hatching. It is crucial to ensure that canaries receive proper nutrition, veterinary care, and a stress-free environment to maximize their chances of successful breeding and egg hatching.
Why don’t canary eggs hatch?
There are several reasons why canary eggs may not hatch. One possibility is that the eggs are infertile, meaning that they were never fertilized by a male canary. Another possibility is that there is a problem with the incubation conditions, such as incorrect temperature or humidity. Additionally, the female canary may not be properly caring for the eggs, neglecting them or abandoning the nest. Finally, certain medical issues or genetic factors can also prevent canary eggs from hatching.
How can I tell if a canary egg is infertile?
To determine if a canary egg is infertile, you can use a process called candling. Hold the egg up to a bright light source and look for any signs of development inside the egg. If the egg is completely clear and does not show any signs of growth, it is likely infertile. However, it’s important to note that eggs may take a few days to show signs of development, so it’s best to wait before reaching a definite conclusion.
What are the ideal conditions for canary eggs to hatch?
Canary eggs require specific conditions in order to hatch successfully. The temperature should be maintained between 99 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37-38 degrees Celsius), with a humidity level of around 50-60%. The nest should also be located in a quiet and undisturbed area to minimize stress for the nesting female canary. It’s important to closely monitor and maintain these conditions throughout the incubation period.
Why would a female canary abandon her eggs?
There are several reasons why a female canary may abandon her eggs. One possibility is that the eggs are infertile and the female recognizes this, leading her to abandon them. Another reason could be that the female is experiencing health issues or stress that prevents her from properly caring for the eggs. In some cases, the female may simply lack the maternal instincts or experience to successfully raise a clutch of eggs. If a female canary consistently abandons her eggs, it may be best to consult with a veterinarian for further evaluation and guidance.
Are there any medical conditions that can prevent canary eggs from hatching?
Yes, certain medical conditions can prevent canary eggs from hatching. One common condition is egg binding, where the female canary is unable to pass the egg out of her reproductive system. This can be a life-threatening situation and requires immediate veterinary intervention. Other medical issues, such as nutritional deficiencies or infections, can also impact the viability of the eggs. It’s important to ensure that the female canary is in good overall health to maximize the chances of successful hatching.