Hatching Duck Eggs- Help Needed

[Kkremer]

I have a duck egg that has an external pip. This happened 18 hours ago and it has not progressed much. The duck is moving and quacking. We are concerned that another duckling that has hatched is moving it around. When do you intervene to help it out?

 

[Jbently28]

Did you pull the shell off? If so, why?

 

[Kkremer]

No we haven’t touched it. Nor have we opened the incubator at all. The hole was made by the duck trying to hatch.

 

[Fields Mountain Farm]

Hello
As long as its still trying Id leave it be. Keep a close eye on it incase its getting too tired , in that case you may need to help it. If the other duckling is dryish and you have a brooder set up and warm, you can move him to it.
If not, you can place him or the egg in a small shallow bowl lined with a dry paper towel. Its not really necessary but may set your mind at ease.
And while your wating and watching, here's a great read on assisted hatching just in case you need to help.
Best of luck for a great outcome!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/guide-to-assisted-hatching-for-all-poultry.72886/

 

[Jbently28]

Ok I see now. When I looked at the pic it almost looked like all but a small portion of the shell had been removed. I would leave it be as long as there is still movement. I wouldn't assist unless it is in obvious distress. It is probably still absorbing the yolk. I've had a duck take 35 hours to hatch after external pip.

 

[Fields Mountain Farm]

@Kkremer how is it going? Any updates on the duckling?

 

[Kkremer]

We ended up having to help it out last night but the instructions you sent helped immensely and it was successful! Rocky is doing great! Thanks so much!

 

[Fields Mountain Farm]

We ended up having to help it out last night but the instructions you sent helped immensely and it was successful! Rocky is doing great! Thanks so much!

Wonderfu!! Im so happy for you and little and Rocky! Please post a pic of him and his hatchmate(s) when you are able to.