Duckling Hatch - Help Please

[AutumnMerritt]

Hello all,

I have raised ducks for a few years but never had to hatch any. I have one duck egg that I have made a makeshift incubator for. It should be hatching literally now. Unfortunately I do not have a day count. About 5 days ago two others with it were rolled open and died in coop.. So I took this one home. They looked very close to being ready the ones that passed. (Which is why I am assuming it's ready.) Also the air cell is about 1/3 of the shell. I can see tons of movement and it looks like the duckling is "trying" to break through the membrane? I just can't tell if it has or not. I don't see a blunt beak shape but there is a point at one side of the air cell. I am scared I need to assist with breaking through. It's been 24 hours of "attempting" to break through. Or at least that's what it looks like. I am worried it could be shrink wrapped. I will try and get some photos/vids after work. Any advice thoughts would be greatly appreciated as I am worried sick. I have the temp at around 98/99 and humidity is 60% or more.

THANK YOU! (Please tell me if I need to adjust etc.)

 

[JaeG]

It won't be shrink wrapped if it hasn't externally pipped, and your humidity is good. Ducks take a long time to hatch so it's more than likely just fine at this point in time. The whole hatching process does take a couple of days at least, but I've never hatched ducks before so hopefully one of these members will be online and will let you know what to expect:

@Ravynscroft
@WVduckchick
@casportpony

 

[AutumnMerritt]

It won't be shrink wrapped if it hasn't externally pipped, and your humidity is good. Ducks take a long time to hatch so it's more than likely just fine at this point in time. The whole hatching process does take a couple of days at least, but I've never hatched ducks before so hopefully one of these members will be online and will let you know what to expect:

@Ravynscroft
@WVduckchick
@casportpony

Thank you for your response. It has made me feel better. Can't wait to get home and check on the progress!

 

[WVduckchick]

Thank you for your response. It has made me feel better. Can't wait to get home and check on the progress!

I bet you will have a pip when you get home.

Ducks definitely test our patience! But we are here to help if you need us.

Good luck!

 

[AutumnMerritt]

Just an update - Baby ended up internally pipping and has started pipping externally. The shell has cracks but the membrane underneath it hasn't been broke. Trying to keep humidity up and and be patient. He/she is peeping here and there and very active. I will post pictures upon arrival!

 

[JaeG]

Exciting!

 

[AutumnMerritt]

We've arrived!

 

[JaeG]

We've arrived! View attachment 1289323

Oh my goodness, that's the cutest little duckling ever!