Help -babies Hatching Out Sticky!

[Goat_Walker]

Ok, Ive got ducklings hatching as we speak, so far four are our and two are pipping - But the ones that are out are nasty and sticky. DO I need to raise the humidity or what?

 

[MandyH]

Yes, raise the humidity.

 

[Goat_Walker]

THANK YOU! I put in some hot water to help, but I think one of the hatchlings might not make it, he is having alot of difficulty.

 

[kathyinmo]

What is your humidity at? I know nothing about ducks, but I can tell you that increasing the humidity makes sticky chicks. Sticky chicks then have difficulty turning in the egg.
Check here: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/aa204

Sticky chicks; chicks smeared with albumen.
Causes:
Low incubation temperature.

High incubation humidity.

Improper turning. This results in reduced embryonic membrane growth and reduced nutrient absorption.

Old eggs.

Very large eggs.

Chicks stuck in shell, dry; chicks with shell fragments stuck to down feathers.
Causes:
Humidity too low during egg storage, incubation, and/or hatching.

Improper egg turning.

Cracked eggs or poor shell quality.

 

[Goat_Walker]

The shells are thick , turning was no problem, the temp stayed steady - im just not sure about the humidity now!

It is at 80% right now since I added some water, Do I need to open it and let some of the humidity escape?

 

[loopy12]

80% is ok for ducks I believe.
At least thats what I'm going by and mine are pipping now...

Just checked my notes and it says 70-75%

Not below 70% anyway. Somewhere I saw 85% I'm sure.
Ugh.

 

[Goat_Walker]

They are moving around fine now, still wobbly - But their feathers are all stiff and yucky.


Will it be ok to wash them off once they are rested and moving around some and out of the bator?