Ridgeback825
Songster
It's been my experience that oxygen is very important. Here is what I have done with great results. After seeing the external pip, I chip the shell pieces away and break the internal membrane. This allows the chick to breathe and get the blood pumping. This helps them absorb all blood and nutrients. They usually rest for a bit then start to zip. A proper zip should take less than 15 min, 5 in most chicks, some go an hour. I always mark the air cell ot last candling before lockdown so I know where it's safe and away from blood vessels. I feel that this helps them get the oxygen needed for the work ahead in zipping and poping out. Some argue that if they aren't strong enough to break free, they won't survive, but I haven't experienced that yet and feel it's the exception that happens far less than discussed. Many also push the shrink wrapping fear when helping but time is what causes them to get stuck in combination with humidity. I usually wait for one hatched chick to emerge before doing anything prolonged in the incubator to help with humidity, as a wet chick will keep the humidity as high as possible. Here's a pic of what I do and I hope it helps in the future! We do this knowing that not all will survive and it's still so worth it! Enjoy the fuzzballs!