Dumb newbie kills chick- learns hard way....

[vetgirl00us]

I candled the eggs that are supposed to go into lockdown tomorrow night to be sure all were alive and well. I had one egg that was more underdeveloped than the others- I could see a chick but there was also alot of yolk still visible and I could discern no movement within that one egg. The rest are all dark inside with a large air cell and if I tap lightly with my fingernail, they will move. So I took that egg out assuming it was a dud late last night and put it with the other duds that were culled between days 6-12. Just now I took them outside and broke them open to see if and how far they had progressed before dying. 4 were duds that had been shipped and did not appear to have ever developed (out of 10 in that particular shipment) and the one that seemed to have died recently was one from my own OEGB's. Well, broke it open after having it sit out at room temp all night and all day and the dang chick was still alive! I felt HORRIBLE! Whatever little chance that fella had is now gone. I don't know why it did not look like the other eggs but the chick appeared normal, had fuzz on it and everything. It was just small. I know now not to assume all is no good just because something doesn't look right. Even after sitting out that many hours it was still alive and kicking inside that egg. Man, I just feel so bad....

 

[Imp]

So sorry, but it was an accident. We all learn, and maybe this will help someone else.

Imp

 

[Germaine_11.20]

 

[miniwhipkey]

I am so sorry to hear that. Sorry, Sorry

 

[JoAnn_WI_4-H_Mom]

I always feel so bad when this happens, and it is easy enough to do.

Forgive yourself. Best you can do.

 

[vetgirl00us]

I did, I just hate that the poor fella got that far and still had a chance at hatching. It was sooo cute too. At least I know if I candle them that late in the game to give them a bit more room for chance. Little guy just didn't read his growth calender I guess or maybe it would have never hatched but next time I will know better.