First time, long time...also Newbie Quail mom...worried!

[Chrischik]

Hello everyone! I've followed the pages for a long time but this is my first communique...I've officially delved into the world of hatching! Need assistance though, super concerned about my quail eggs. Purchased fertile coturnix eggs and have been incubating in Devopet incubator, brand new. Everything seemed to be totally stable, but now its day 17 and I haven't seen any popping (maybe just one this morning) and no wiggles, cant hear chirping either...am I being too paranoid and not patient enough? My son is so excited and I would simply be devastated if they didn't hatch. I have hatched chix eggs before (in a SUPER rudimentary setup!) so not my 1st time, but quail are new to me. Help me stay calm lol!

 

[Nabiki]

Pips on quail eggs are hard to see, especially since it's your first time. I would give them another day or two before really worrying, in case your temperature was a bit low. At that point, it may be a good idea to candle.

Do you have a calibrated thermometer or three inside the incubator?

 

[Chrischik]

Pips on quail eggs are hard to see, especially since it's your first time. I would give them another day or two before really worrying, in case your temperature was a bit low. At that point, it may be a good idea to candle.

Do you have a calibrated thermometer or three inside the incubator?

No, the unit is brand new and came pre-calibrated at the correct hatching temp, so I never even considered an extra. I used my phone flashlight to peer in and I think I see two more eggs with pip cracks, so three that are now visible..Im not expecting a miracle hatch rate lol, just want something out of the effort! Like I said, its day 17, and I read that it can take longer, all depends. Holding out hope for 50%!

 

[Nabiki]

Incubators, even brand new ones lie. I highly recommend calibrated thermometers and a salt tested hygrometer.

It sounds like you have chicks on the way, though. Congrats!