Artificial incubation is a widespread practice in intensive avicultural establishments. It is used primarily as a means of increasing production, both by increasing the number of eggs laid per hen and by minimizing the spread of disease. As more and more aviculturists turn to artificial incubation to increase production, veterinarians will increasingly be called on for advice and assistance. This article discusses the principles of artificial incubation and hatching and discusses the requirements for assisted hatching.