This egg was not in an incubator, it was, along with several others, abandoned by a wild hen. The eggs sat outside for who-knows-how-long because we didn't realize they were there. She hatched 7 of them all right before leaving them. I caught her and put her and the 7 chicks in a pen because we have so many predators here, it's sad to see the wild hens come each day with fewer and fewer chicks, so I try to protect all that I can.
When I found the eggs she abandoned, one had a hole in it and when I picked it up, over 100 fire ants came streaming out of the hole. I expected the chick to be dead, but he was still breathing several hours later and hatched by himself (and is doing fine). I brought the eggs inside to prevent another fire ant attack and put them under a light. Another one hatched, he was weak, but after a day seemed to be just like any other chick. This one may be having problems because of the age of the egg. Her other chicks hatched June 22 - 3 weeks ago, so this egg must be twice the normal age.
I picked him out per the instructions (thank you!!). He's very, very weak, but I have him wrapped up and warm. I found in the past, if I wrap them in my t-shirt, they do better. My computer room is very hot, so they don't get too cold or anything.
Will let everyone know how he does. Thanks again everybody!!
