HELP ASAP! Assisted hatch, Muscovy.

[Shucks]

I read the assisted hatch page in its entirety four times. After my rescued Muscovy internally pipped, we waited 24 hours before assisting by making an external pip.

I then waited, per the instructions, 12 hours (no activity) before creating the zip line and opening the air pocket. After reading about ducks later I’m freaking out and worried I didn’t wait long enough. I’ve been in tears all day.

I’ve kept the membrane moist but I just cannot tell if he’s ready and don’t want to jump the gun.

He moves and chirps still but seems weak. It has now been 48 hours since we noticed internal pipping and 24 since assisted outer pipping.

His foot is above his head which I think is bad but am not sure.

Have it in forced air incubator. Temp 98F, humidity 67ish (67-70).

Please help ASAP.

 

[Soon2BChixMom]

@chickens really I know you haven't hatched muscovies but maybe you can offer assistance here?
Or maybe @MillersFarm?

 

[chickens really]

Hello, don't interfere anymore and just keep waiting longer..It is absorbing the yolk. Hatching Muscovy is the same as any Bird..Best wishes...I'll follow along if needed...

 

[casportpony]

@Shucks, welcome to BYC! Is this the article you read? https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/guide-to-assisted-hatching-for-all-poultry.72886/
@WVduckchick, @Pyxis, @Ravynscroft any advice?

With my Muscovies I usually wait the 48 hours before externally pipping for them, then another 24-48 before doing more. For me assisting more depends on what the membrane looks like and what position they are in. You duckling looks like it is has two malpositions, foot over head and head over wing.

 

[WVduckchick]

I just replied on the other thread.
I'll copy and paste it here.

 

[WVduckchick]

from the other thread

At the point you have it now, it's a waiting game and keeping the membrane moist. He has plenty of room to kick out when ready, so other than keeping the membrane from getting stuck to the feathers, you shouldn't have to do anything else! He will pop out when he's ready.

Good luck and great job!!

I wil add, once he works his head out, he may lay in the bottom of the shell for a bit. That's fine, just make sure it isn't stuck to him and that he can get free from it when he's strong enough.