How soon can I hold babies? FIRST HATCH this week! (hopefully)

[MA Mama]

SSUMING my eggs hatch at the end of this week (first hatch sooooooooooo exciting and scary!!), how soon after the chicks come out of the bator can I hold them? I see people write that chicks are 'affectionate" at only a day old etc., so when can the holding begin? I know they need to dry, and all need to hatch before opening the incubator. Obviously not holding for long periods, and keeping them warm, and being gentle of course! I set 16 Araucana and 6 Silkie, and after MANY newbie mistakes, temperature spikes, and other horrible things, I locked down 4 Araucana and 3 Silkies. All were moving at lockdown. i am concerned about the air sacs, as they seem to be all different sizes.

 

[aoxa]

People handle chicks all the time at a day old. You would most likely keep them pretty warm in your hands. Remember that chicks hatched by a hen wouldn't stay under her 24/7, so I'm sure you will be okay holding them after they dry off

 

[egg-cellent]

We hold our, all the time. Just be careful when you open your hand up much, sometimes they will try to run off and fall. Congratulations!