HELP!! Duck eggs internal pip/hatching

[Livseymour]

Hi!! I really need help... so I saved some ducks from my backyard (mallards) after their mom was killed. This was about three weeks ago, and they have been progressing really well and seem to be growing. I’ve been using a homemade incubator (box, heat lamp, thermometer, and damp paper towels once a day) I have estimated that it is day 28-29, and none of them have internally pipped.. also, one has been trying to push through the air sac for a few days and hasn’t been able to do so. I’m worried he’s stuck and won’t make it. Any tips??

 

[shawluvsbirds]

Hi!! I really need help... so I saved some ducks from my backyard (mallards) after their mom was killed. This was about three weeks ago, and they have been progressing really well and seem to be growing. I’ve been using a homemade incubator (box, heat lamp, thermometer, and damp paper towels once a day) I have estimated that it is day 28-29, and none of them have internally pipped.. also, one has been trying to push through the air sac for a few days and hasn’t been able to do so. I’m worried he’s stuck and won’t make it. Any tips??

Well...I feel I must tell you first that it is illegal to mess with a wild duck or their nest. Even if it is abandoned. You should, by law contact a wildlife rehab or someone with a permit that can raise them if they hatch.
That being said, there is a good chance since your using homemade incubator that the temperature and humidity may have been off which can delay hatch and cause trouble at hatch time. In my opinion it would be best to just let it be what it's going to be and wait and see. They may hatch they may not.
If you decide you need to proceed with an assist here is an article with good instructions.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/guide-to-assisted-hatching-for-all-poultry.72886/