However, there has been little scientific research concerning the incubation and hatching of ratite eggs, so most current knowledge is from growers. Length of incubation, temperature, and humidity suggestions vary greatly, so use the suggestions below only as guidelines. Virtually no standard exists for minimum acceptable level of fertility or hatchability in ratite eggs. Therefore, the determination of good versus poor fertility and hatchability is unknown. In most cases, if you obtain at least 50 percent hatch-ability of all eggs set, you probably are doing well.
Incubators vary in cost and capacity.
The incubators of choice seem to be on the extreme ends of the cost spectrum. Any incubator is adequate as long as optimal temperature, humidity, ventilation, turning, etc. can be maintained. During incubation, most ostrich and rhea growers set eggs vertically in the incubator trays, with the blunt end up. Emu growers set eggs on their sides. Eggs must be turned at least 3 to 5 times per day and up to 12 to 24 times per day.