My First Hatching Experience Two Thumbs Up!

[Providence Too]

I am so excited, as of this morning we have 7 hatched chicks and even more pipping and zipping. Some seem to be way behind the others, is this normal. How long should I wait before assuming no more will hatch?

Stacie

 

[goldnchocolate]

Woooooo Hoooooooo

 

[Shannon's Chix]

Good job!

I personally give them a couple extra days just in case...of course watch out for stinkers! Then I candle, tap and shake gently and usually make a little hole just to be sure...then toss.

Don't forget to post pics!

 

[Ridgerunner]

Hatcheries put chicks in the mail the day they are hatched and they arrive alive and well 2 and often 3 days later. Mama hens will keep the first chick that hatches in the nest until the last one to hatch dries off in a normal hatch. You have at least 48 hours and probably much more from the time the first one hatches until you need to open the incubator. I'd wait 60 hours without a worry, probably longer if I saw activity still going on.

When a chick gets hungry or more likely thirsty, its cheeping will change from a the normal here I am cheep to a loud, shrill, aggravating, attention-getting, constant, distressed cheep. I don't like to wait that long. If that happens, it is time to take the chicks out.

 

[Providence Too]

Thank you all! This is the first time I have hatched myself, usually just order online and pick them up at the post office.

Stacie