The last couple of hatches of chicks from my own eggs were rough. Several chicks pipped and tore the shell but couldn't get through the membrane and died.
(1) Is the membrane too tough? If so, what can I do to make it less strong ... starting all the way to what I feed the hens that lay the egg.
(2) Is the chick just too weak? If so, again, what can I do to help the hens lay eggs that make stronger chicks?
Right now a friend is using his incubator to hatch the eggs. He works so he can't be there to help the chicks 24/7... when they start to hatch. He helps those he can but meanwhile ... need to know how to make stronger chicks and less-strong membranes.
I'm collecting eggs for another hatch right now. I've backed off the bread treats, and are strictly feeding laying feed (Nutrena NatureWise Layer Pellets ... 20% protein). Each pen of chickens get to free-range in my backyard about 4 hours a day. I did give them whole oats last night. And I want to give them cabbage today. Every 3-4 days I add a little bit of vitamins to their water.
We'd appreciate any info you have.
Thanks.
(1) Is the membrane too tough? If so, what can I do to make it less strong ... starting all the way to what I feed the hens that lay the egg.
(2) Is the chick just too weak? If so, again, what can I do to help the hens lay eggs that make stronger chicks?
Right now a friend is using his incubator to hatch the eggs. He works so he can't be there to help the chicks 24/7... when they start to hatch. He helps those he can but meanwhile ... need to know how to make stronger chicks and less-strong membranes.
I'm collecting eggs for another hatch right now. I've backed off the bread treats, and are strictly feeding laying feed (Nutrena NatureWise Layer Pellets ... 20% protein). Each pen of chickens get to free-range in my backyard about 4 hours a day. I did give them whole oats last night. And I want to give them cabbage today. Every 3-4 days I add a little bit of vitamins to their water.
We'd appreciate any info you have.
Thanks.
