February Hatch-A-Long

[Mellowmalt]

stuckey, they are adorable. I heard some cheeping coming from an egg at mine. Can't see any changes yet but getting close myself here.

 

[LadiesAndJane]

@LadiesAndJane: Do you have some plaster eggs? They are often used to keep the hen broody until the chicks in the incubator are ready.

I do, just not sure if I should even attempt giving these questionable eggs to them.

Thanks

 

[Trisseh]

I do, just not sure if I should even attempt giving these questionable eggs to them.

Thanks

I would think if they’re broodies you’ve used before successfully, your eggs have just as good a chance if not better of hatching under a hen vs in an incubator, jiggly air cells or not. Completely detached ones, I don’t know. They’re a crapshoot either way. Although I suppose there’s always the possibility they may reject them, as with any other time, I would be inclined to give it a go with a couple of eggs.
I have a silkie that goes broody at the drop of a hat, and she will probably get at least some of the eggs I have coming in the spring. She’s molting right now and she still goes and finds the egg laid by the other bird, and sits on it. Not truly broody at this point but she sure likes sitting on eggs.

 

[juliasflock]

13 out of 14 hatched! The last egg was fully developed, and I could see an attempt of internal pip, but just couldn’t.

I can’t say enough good things about the 360! But, cleaning it was a bit tricky. Any tips or tricks for cleaning? Thanks! Happy hatching to everyone!

 

[LadiesAndJane]

I would think if they’re broodies you’ve used before successfully, your eggs have just as good a chance if not better of hatching under a hen vs in an incubator, jiggly air cells or not. Completely detached ones, I don’t know. They’re a crapshoot either way. Although I suppose there’s always the possibility they may reject them, as with any other time, I would be inclined to give it a go with a couple of eggs.
I have a silkie that goes broody at the drop of a hat, and she will probably get at least some of the eggs I have coming in the spring. She’s molting right now and she still goes and finds the egg laid by the other bird, and sits on it. Not truly broody at this point but she sure likes sitting on eggs.

Thanks! I was thinking to give it a go, in a few days to give the air cells a chance to stabilize first, if they do. Keep a few in the incubator just to see if it makes any difference.

 

[LadiesAndJane]

13 out of 14 hatched! The last egg was fully developed, and I could see an attempt of internal pip, but just couldn’t.

I can’t say enough good things about the 360! But, cleaning it was a bit tricky. Any tips or tricks for cleaning? Thanks! Happy hatching to everyone!

Congratulations!
I use a shelf liner at hatch, seems to keep the mess down. I rinse carefully in the sink, I have a small brush that fits it the grooves.
Finish off with some disinfectant spray, air dry and ready for the next batch.

 

[PDXJULES]

OK here is a little vid of my 9 freshlings! Today the butt tending and frequent scooping begins. No water spills yet! The Gold Laced Orp was last out, had trouble lifting her head for long Sunday - but up eating, drinking and looking for stuff to do today! Happy Mama. That said, I need to Float Test some still in the bator. 2 very likely duds. I think the Isbars who appeared late starters were possibly too delicate for the tough journey - but looked like more development since last Monday - and air cells intact and well sized - so...maybe? The repaired CL - idk...except it had a lot of development for a Day 1 repair. If it isn't too bouyant should i attempt an air hole for the repaired one? how long does the air sac usually keep a chick alive...1 dayish?

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10160557462998776

 

[juliasflock]

Here’s a little photo shoot with some of the chicks. They’re such a calm bunch so far, no whiners!

 

[Offshoreorca]

Here’s a little photo shoot with some of the chicks. They’re such a calm bunch so far, no whiners!

They're all soooooo cute

 

[LadiesAndJane]

Here’s a little photo shoot with some of the chicks. They’re such a calm bunch so far, no whiners!

Great photos! I love taking photos of them this young, as they do not move around too much yet, as soon as they hit 2 weeks, almost impossible! Love the mottled orps!