How long should she continue to sit?

[britsbantams]

My silkie just started hatching her eggs and this is my first go around. She has hatched 3 chicks so far(1 Sunday, 1 Monday, and 1 Wednesday. Its now Thursday and she is still sitting on a few eggs. How many days should I continue letting her sit on the remaining eggs? Ive read that the chicks hatch within 2-4 days of each other but all of this is new to me and i would hate to pull her off of a hatching egg. Any help is appreciated!

 

[howfunkyisurchicken]

I'm guessing all the eggs weren't set at the same time?
I would candle them to see if they are alive. If they are, maybe move some food and water close to her nest so she can take care of her already hatched chicks. If its close enough for her to reach without getting up, she may stay on the remaining eggs long enough for them to hatch.
You could also try taking the already hatched chicks and put them in the brooder until the other hatch. Then give the brooder babies back to her. Good luck!

 

[Majd]

I agree with the above. .. good luck and keep us posted..

 

[britsbantams]

Im going to check the rest this afternoon. Do I need to buy a candling device or or can you use a flashlight in a dark room?

 

[howfunkyisurchicken]

A flashlight will work just fine. I've been using the light on my cell phone to candle Its really bright and works very well!

 

[Majd]

A flashlight will work just fine. I've been using the light on my cell phone to candle Its really bright and works very well!

Omg... me too!!!!! It's really bright and works very well without preparing a box or anything.... it's easy and really affective....

 

[britsbantams]

We are up to 5 chicks as of today! Candled them and had to toss a few. The remaining eggs that she is still sitting are the mystery ones that we could not see through(im guessing due to a thicker shell?) The waiting game continues.

 

[Majd]

Just wait until day 22 then consider tossingm..