Duckling in distress?

[WVduckchick]

Without a better pic, I can’t be positive. How long has it been that way now?

 

[HollowOfWisps]

The chattering is chewing so there is a chance the yolk may need some more time. From the picture it looks like his head is out? Am I seeing that correctly?

 

[BelovedBirds]

The chattering is chewing so there is a chance the yolk may need some more time. From the picture it looks like his head is out? Am I seeing that correctly?

his head is tucked in, under his wing I believe, its only his beak poking out- I'll wait a little longer then. I don't think waiting to be on the safe side will hurt? He's still chirping strongly and moving and the membrane looks okay

 

[BelovedBirds]

Without a better pic, I can’t be positive. How long has it been that way now?

He did a second pip next to the first around 45 hours ago I believe, and continued the zip last night, making it probably around a third of the way around the egg- he's been in the same place since then with no progress during the night or all day today (it is now 5pm here)

 

[HollowOfWisps]

He did a second pip next to the first around 45 hours ago I believe, and continued the zip last night, making it probably around a third of the way around the egg- he's been in the same place since then with no progress during the night or all day today (it is now 5pm here)

If he's tucked under he may be malpositioned. His beak out is good, but in the next hour or two if he doesn't make progress I would help him by slowly finishing the zip, but still leaving his back end in the shell as long as all veins are receded.

 

[WVduckchick]

If it started a legitimate zip, I mean not just regular pips (even multiple ones) if he started progressing, then you would be safe to go ahead and finish the zip. Again, leave his bottom in the shell and let him exit on his own. But removing the air cell cap is fine.

 

[BelovedBirds]

If it started a legitimate zip, I mean not just regular pips (even multiple ones) if he started progressing, then you would be safe to go ahead and finish the zip. Again, leave his bottom in the shell and let him exit on his own. But removing the air cell cap is fine.

Should I lay the remaining half of the egg on it's side? I'm worried he'll easily come out even if not ready, but I'm probably worried for nothing

 

[WVduckchick]

Should I lay the remaining half of the egg on it's side? I'm worried he'll easily come out even if not ready, but I'm probably worried for nothing

Yes, lay it on its side with his head upright. And yea, You are worried for nothing.

The other option is just to leave it and let it finish on its own. Your choice.

 

[BelovedBirds]

Yes, lay it on its side with his head upright. And yea, You are worried for nothing.

The other option is just to leave it and let it finish on its own. Your choice.

I'll go ahead and complete the zip then, I do believe he is trying to zip as he has turned in his shell a third of the way or so-
He's still not progressed since earlier, might be chewing still, I should take the top off now then? Place him back in egg on its side and wait for him to pop out?
I've read up on assisting hatching so I know what to do, just initial anxieties that will hopefully fade with experience!

 

[Miss Lydia]

I wonder if you put him in a cup in the bottom half of the egg might keep him from popping out too soon? Just a thought these other 2 ladies know about this more than me. just with it being Christmas everyone is going to be hit or miss with replies.