Broody Hen Day 20.....Eggs Rocking

[Cayden05]

Hi, I am new to chickens and this is my first broody hen. She is a Mottled Houdan and she is sitting on 6 eggs. Two of which that are 100% Mottled Houdan and 4 that are Black sex link crossed Mottled Houdan. I went to check on her this morning and I noticed that a few of the eggs were rocking. What does that mean? Are they close to hatching? She is on Day 20, so one day before hatch.

 

[AltonaAcres]

Yes, the chicks are rotating into hatching position! Get ready for fluffy babies!

 

[Cayden05]

Yes, the chicks are rotating into hatching position! Get ready for fluffy babies!

Ok, so when should I expect chicks later today or tomorrow?

 

[AltonaAcres]

Tomorrow unless they are already pipped. Maybe tonight but probably tomorrow.

 

[Cayden05]

Tomorrow unless they are already pipped. Maybe tonight but probably tomorrow.

Ok, thank you so much. I’ll try to update when the chicks hatch!

 

[Cayden05]

Tomorrow unless they are already pipped. Maybe tonight but probably tomorrow.

I just got home and checked on them again and non are pipped. Should I be worried or is it fine. It’s the end of day 20.

 

[AltonaAcres]

It is completely normal. I usually don't have pips until the end of day 21

 

[Cayden05]

It is completely normal. I usually don't have pips until the end of day 21

Ok thanks. Would that mean they would hatch on Day 22?

 

[Cayden05]

It is completely normal. I usually don't have pips until the end of day 21

Ok, so the eggs have started to pip externally, do you know how long it will take for them to hatch?!

 

[AltonaAcres]

At least 12 hours........................always takes longer than I expect. Patience is virtue!