Crack in Shell

[3 Chicks]

This has been the craziest hatch. It started with my very reliable broody hen. After 3 eggs exploded, 4 didn't develop, and one got eaten by a predator, I'm left with 4 in an incubator (which is a new experience for me--usually broody does everything).

We've made it to day 18 and they are on lockdown. However, I noticed 1 eggs has a crack all the way down the side with no pip. I really, really don't want to have to clean a rotten egg from an incubator and I don't want to ruin the chances for the other eggs with an explosion.

I'm not sure if the egg is rotten or trying to hatch. I've never seen a crack all the way down a shell with no pip. Anyone have any thoughts?

 

[AmyLynn2374]

This has been the craziest hatch. It started with my very reliable broody hen. After 3 eggs exploded, 4 didn't develop, and one got eaten by a predator, I'm left with 4 in an incubator (which is a new experience for me--usually broody does everything).

We've made it to day 18 and they are on lockdown. However, I noticed 1 eggs has a crack all the way down the side with no pip. I really, really don't want to have to clean a rotten egg from an incubator and I don't want to ruin the chances for the other eggs with an explosion.

I'm not sure if the egg is rotten or trying to hatch. I've never seen a crack all the way down a shell with no pip. Anyone have any thoughts?

I'd candle it.

 

[silkienrescues]

you've had a tough run. Could it be cracked from the predator attack? Is there any odour or seepage?

 

[3 Chicks]

Is it alright to take it out during lockdown to candle it?

It was intact after the predator attack. Good theory, though.

It was cracked as of yesterday afternoon with no movement/change. Am I correct that even if it were a chick hatching it would be dead by now with no changes?

 

[3 Chicks]

Anyone know if this would still have a chance to be viable?

 

[kuchchicks]

It's fine to candle during lock down. You should try to avoid opening the bator so your humidity doesn't drop once the eggs have pipped. If you take it out you should be able to quickly candle and look for signs of life. If your humidity drops for a short time don't worry.

The crack could be the start of a pip. I would not toss it just yet unless you are positive. Smell it, candle it, and put it up to your ear to listen. Maybe put it in a Tupperware bowl in the bator to somewhat separate it from the other eggs in case it does explode.

 

[3 Chicks]

Just candled it. I've never candled this late (day 19) so I'm not sure what exactly to look for except movement and a FULL egg. This egg has empty space at the top of the egg--space where I can still see through liquid. When I turned it, nothing moved. Am I off base? Anything else to observe?

Would you agree I should toss it?

 

[tiffmw10]

IMO, I would give it more time. The large space and a full egg are good signs.

I also have a cracked shell and mine is due to hatch anyday. KUP!

 

[kuchchicks]

You've got to remember that if they are full grown there is not much room in there. You may see some movement but it is not going to be like it was early on. But you should see some. I too would give it a little more time. Don't think you have much to lose.

 

[kuchchicks]

Any news?