Lifting momma up to look??

[Kimber]

Will it affect the eggs to lift up momma for a moment to look?

I usually give them a treat and they come off the eggs just for a min to get some goodies, and I can inspect the eggs. The last few days, one of my mommas isn't budging. I think it is somewhere between day 19 and 21 (I had just come home from surgery to find broody mommas) between the pain meds and uncertainty when they started sitting I'm a little unsure about the dates.

On of the mommas hatched one out last night (she jumps up for the treat and we saw the baby)

and so far no others are piping...... under her.

 

[chicks for better health]

It won't hurt if you lift her up for a minute or two.

 

[jimnjay]

They usually don't leave the nest during the last three days. I always give the food by hand a they appreciate a drink in the hot weather. It most likely will not hurt the eggs but the less interference the better. Mama's usually have it handled. you will know you have babies because they are curious by nature and will peek their little heads out to see what is going on. That is probably the cutest thing you will ever see.

 

[baldie]

I have to agree, they will peek their tiny heads out and it is certainly the cutest thing I have ever seen!!

 

[Dirt Road]

Especially if they are hatching, it is best to leave them alone. Other than satisfying your curiosity, there is really nothing you can accomplish. If the hen is an old experienced mother, it wont really hurt. If she is a "newbie" she might get upset which will not improve anything. Being cursed with an overactive curiosity myself, I've had to learn the hard way over 60+ years, but I certainly understand the temptation. Nowadays I usually don't bother them.

Jim

 

[Kimber]

Quote:
Oh YEA! And THAT is what started my ADDICTION to chicks!

Thanks all, I will just peek since she hasn't moved in days.