Coturnix Quail Chick can't walk!

[Ilovewildlife]

Hi,

I am new to BackYard Chickens. Yesterday and today, lots of baby quail have been hatching in my incubator (this is my first time incubating them. Currently 7 have hatched. I have about another 7 due to hatch, with one currently hatching. All the quail chicks have been very energetic and walking fine apart from one. This one began hatching yesterday, but didn't make any progress until this morning because I helped it by peeling a small bit of shell off the egg (I tried not to break any of the membrane). The chick then hatched and has fluffed up nicely over the day. However, it has not been able to walk unlike the other chicks which were walking within an hour or so. I am really concerned that it may die as it hasn't been able to get food and water. It can move its legs and I have put it in a separate area so that other chicks don't peck it. I have also tried getting it to stand up and it will balance, however it just falls over as soon as it moves its legs.

I hope someone can help.
Many thanks,

 

[Jensownzoo]

Well, the leg issue may be why it was having trouble hatching in the first place. You can try putting it in a small cup periodically to help it stand by supporting the body upright. This may strengthen the legs if all that is wrong is that they are weak. You can offer food/water while it is in the cup. Do short, frequent sessions at first.

 

[Ilovewildlife]

Hi,
Thank you! I will try. It seems to be trying to stand more. Hopefully it will get better.
Many thanks,