Incubator disaster - please help!

[lisacj]

I accidentally stopped the turn on my duck eggs around day 18. Will all my ducklings have died? I only realised today when I went to stop the turn and realised it had already stopped. What are the chances of a successful hatch? I'm SO upset!

 

[Duckchick2011]

you could try candling, checking for anylife...I know my turner went unpluged the first week of incubation and everything turned out alright, and the power went out for half the night once around day 14, but so close to the end....I really couldn't tell you.

 

[Emmalion]

Hi and

How long did they go without being turned?

BTW I am sure they are just fine.

 

[duckyfromoz]

Some may still hatch but the chances of certain deformities are much greater when eggs arent turned properly. As Duckchick2011 says - candle for signs of life now- and hope for the best. Often if they are struggling to hatch it can be a sign something is wrong physically ( as apposed to being shrink wrapped by the membrane. ) - so be very careful as far as assisting any to hatch. With a case like this it may be kinder in the long run to just wait things out and rely on survival of the fittest.

I hope you get a best case scenario - and you get a good hatch, dont be too mad at yourself- accidents do happen.
There are so many things where things can go wrong- if these guys dont hatch it doesnt mean that it was only because of the turner being off.
Something else to mention about incubating duck eggs- they actually do much better when laid on their side and turned by rolling.

 

[lisacj]

Thanks so much for your quick replies. They have not been turned since day 19 I think. I had a quick candle and could see they were well developed but no movement

I think you are right - will just wait now and see what happens. Thanks for the tip about being put on their side- I have an automatic turning incubator - should I also put them on their side in this?

 

[lisacj]

Oo! Latest report- one has pipped this morning! Hurrah!!

 

[Duckchick2011]

 

[Emmalion]

That is so awesome to hear. I hope your hatch gets on its feet and gives you a run for your money

 

[lisacj]

Oooooh - total of 6 pipped up to now

don't know if any or all will make it out of their shells but at least alive!
Thanks for all your support - this is a special hatch - it's my first one from my own ducks so I'm super excited!