HELP! First time hatching duckling! How long does it take to zip fully before we should intervene? It’s been 5 hours

[Hollymac]

Hello everyone! Please help - it’s our second attempt to hatch a duckling my daughter was heartbroken the first time because the little fella didn’t make it.
This duck seems much healthier and has already started to zip. But now seems like no progress or movement for 5 hours. When should I be concerned? Should I help it? Any advice please and thank you!

 

[casportpony]

Can you post a picture?

 

[Hollymac]

Can you post a picture?

 

[Miss Lydia]

@New duck mommy 2021

 

[bhaugh]

I give ducks 24 or so hours. There may be blood vessels receding and risky to interfere

 

[New duck mommy 2021]

How long has it been since he first hit the egg
It can take them 24-48 to absorb and zip
I read it’s been 5 hours since he last hit it
The hits look to be in the correct position
He may just be resting and absorbing

 

[Hatch in chicks]

have you opened the incubator any? this could be serious.

 

[Hatch in chicks]

I've helped them hatch at most 5 hours after trying to make a big pip hole or zip it depends...

 

[Miss Lydia]

If the duckling is absorbing the yolk you need to be very careful and not help too soon.

 

[Miss Lydia]

I give ducks 24 or so hours. There may be blood vessels receding and risky to interfere