help deciding when to assist

[aafairchild]

Hi

This is only my 2nd time incubating. My 1st chick hatched at 7am so far I have 4 running a
round. I have 2 that seem to be having a little trouble. I am concerned about shrink wrapping thepoor babies. The 4 that are out are almost dry and ready to .move, hence my concern about humidity. They have clear external pips so they are not immediate danger. I have to go back to work monday so i am thinking of assisting tomorrow evening if they are not out. These 2 did pip a bit later maybe 2 hrs. Does this sound like a reasonable time frame. That would put first 4 between 28 and 34 hrs post hatch. Too soon too late? Any advice appreciated


Thanks
alice

 

[sepaditty1]

They are still in a good time frame. I've seen them take almost the whole day once they pip.

Remember, the yolk is absorbed just before they hatch. It is possible for them to go 3 days on that. That's how hatcheries are able to ship day old birds. I'm not saying you have to wait 3 days, but it won't hurt your first ones to hang out in there for a day while the others catch up.

Some are totally against assisting. Some aren't. I have helped twice & both chicks ended up fine. It is harder than you think! I don't think you'll have to make that call in this case.

 

[aafairchild]

Update 1 of them just popped her top and rolled out. The last one is still working. I can see her moving. She may very well be out by morning. Just getting ready in case she needs a bit of help.

Thanks for advice

 

[lazy gardener]

 

[aafairchild]

final update

She made it on her own late last night. I now have 1 egg that has shown no activity and I will end up doing an eggtopsy on it to find out what happened. 6 adorable little mutt chicks to add to the mess I already have.

Thanks
Alice