Optimizing the hatching of Tibetan chickens by artificial methods at high altitude

Abstract

SUMMARY Temperature and RH are important parameters to be taken into account by the hatchery manager, especially in high-altitude environments. Excessive or inadequate temperature and RH do not result in the best hatchability. On the basis of our results, the best incubation conditions at high altitudes differ from those in lowland areas and should be adjusted to obtain the best hatchability. Because the present experiment was conducted without supplemental oxygen, the hatchability remained lower than that obtained at a low altitude, but it increased from 33 to 77.4%.