Dry membrane? Be patient or assist?

[shandy]

This little one has looked about like this for about 3 hours. I see breathing and movement but not a beak. I’m worried about the length of time and the appearance of the membrane. We are at Day 20 with one other chick hatched. Humidity is between 65-70. Do I continue to watch and wait? This is so nerve wracking!

 

[Hybridchucks]

@chickens really

 

[chickens really]

It will take many hours so keep waiting...Congrats.

 

[chickens really]

Might be zipping and sooner?..Dnt interfere though..

 

[morganalefae]

unless the membrane is sticking to them to the point they can't move period I would just wait it out unless the membrane is so dry they can't move then you'll have to help.

 

[TheKindaFarmGal]

Looks like the poor little chick stopped zipping midway. I'd definitely be helping. Chicks zip very fast. How long since it eternally pipped?

Carefully peel back membrane and shell, if you get blood or anything, then stop and let it rest. Hope it goes well!

 

[chickens really]

Do what you feel is right?...I've hatched over 200 eggs so I might know a bit about hatching...

 

[JaeG]

I agree - if it has started unzipping and then stopped then something is going on and the chick is stuck (for whatever reason). Good luck! It is always nerve wracking!

 

[chickens really]

They rest before they really get going..It might have died but I don't think so..Pull it out and see if it wakes up?

 

[TheKindaFarmGal]

They rest before they really get going..It might have died but I don't think so..Pull it out and see if it wakes up?

It's different with chickens. They go a lot faster than ducks. I've hatched both, and a chick stopping while zipping for three hours is never good.