Yet another incubator question

[wildlifewarrior]

Ok here it is. I have an incubator which use to be used for birds along time ago. It is big enough for one maybe two clutches of eggs. It has a dial on the outside to establish the temp, i have my temp probes fed into the container. Inside the container there is a fan for air circulation, and a plastic shoe box container with vermiculite. My question is, should I place a cover on the plastic shoe box or leave it in the container without the top on and put extra water in the bottom of the tub? Also the temp in the container seems to sneak up every few days. should i attach a thermostat to the container or just monitor the temp? I also plan on incubating them about 86-87, i know it will take a bit longer but from what ive been told the babies will come out a bit bigger and a bit stronger.

~mike

[cueball]

I would use a container with a lid. This will ensure better control of moisture. Also place the thermostat probe inside the egg box. This will help with the creeping temps. Set it at 88 degrees, this will give you some room in case the temps creep up 1-2 degrees. Good luck big Mike