first time incubating

[WalnutHill]

That's just how it's supposed to look. Keep a close eye for the next couple of hours and keep the incubator closed. At this point he should be ready for hatching so if he gets too stressed or stalls too long in the zip, assistance should help, not hurt. But let him set the pace.

 

[chickenlittle84]

I can see the membrane under the pip looks yellow. Is that normal or something wrong? Should I be moistening that area as well?

 

[WalnutHill]

If the membrane is turning yellow or brown that means the humidity is too low. You should not be opening the incubator during a zip but you DO need to get the humidity up and moisten the membrane!

 

[chickenlittle84]

This is the same area that had the mark on the outside so I guess I was seeing the yellow through the egg

 

[chickenlittle84]

My incubator is set up so I can get my hand in the vent. Its only under the bruised looking spot on the egg that's yellow. The egg cell membrane is normal. Do you think if he ruptured his yolk or blood vessel would do that?

 

[WalnutHill]

could be. If he keeps pipping right past it and the rest of the membrane looks fine, then don't be too concerned. Did you review the duck thread to be sure there are no other duck-specific things to do?

 

[chickenlittle84]

He still hasn't made any progress and its been about 12 hours since he pipped. I tried to encourage him to hatch by whistling and talking to him but he just wiggles a bit and then stops. I picked a bit of the shell off where the pip is and he stuck just the very tip of his bill into the hole I think. Does he needs to get his nostrils uncovered or will he eventually start trying to hatch on his own. I'm just so worried about him

 

[chickenlittle84]

 

[WVduckchick]

According to Storey's guide to raising ducks, ducklings require 24-48 hours from initial pip to hatch, so dont worry too soon. Two of mine took over 40 grueling hours, so try not to panic yet.

 

[chickenlittle84]

Oh OK thanks. His bill is sticking out of the pip hole about 2-3 mm. He keeps opening and closing his mouth so I'm sure he can breath even though I can't see his nostrils. Wish I could hear if he's chirping at all. I'm feeling pretty confident though now that I can see his mouth moving. Omg so excited to meet him!!