On April 3rd, we began our incubation period at 6 pm. Our incubator is homemade. Throughout the incubation period, the constant temp. has been 96 F. On April 20th, we began "lock down" and stopped turning them. In between these dates, I candled them and saw they were developing. On day 20, we saw what looks like a beginning pip. But it is tiny, and not all the way through the shell. And I saw a very minute wiggle from the eggs. On the 24th, day 21, nothing else changed. So I candled again and could see they are fully developed. Today is day 23 and there is still no change. I have upped the temp. to 100 - 102 (fluctuates between the two), as of yesterday. There is plenty of humidity. And still... no change. I have been told they may still hatch, and to give them a total of 25 days which will be this Wednesday. If they are still not hatched by 6 pm on Wednesday, would it be okay to open at least one to see what's going on? (They are Orpington eggs.) And, if I do, and they are alive and developed, would it be okay to just help them hatch? I know that it can be dangerous, but I have learned how to do it. I have learned that you do it VERY slowly, and keep them warm and moist during whole process. I also know that if there is a little blood to stop for 15 minutes before continuing. (During 15 minutes they should be set back in incubator.) And I know to start with top layer of shell, and pick a tiny bit away at a time. So, I just want to know everyone's opinions about checking them out. -------^ Please help me. Thank you
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