I try to maintain until they at least crack the shell themselves, then help them slightly, unless I see red or pinkish liquid. Always have at the back of my mind they have food enough for 3 days.
I had a bad experience just last week, two had pipped and the first had taken a good 40 hours to progress, the 2nd seemed to be stronger, so a little less concerned with it. Long story short, 2nd chick ended up 'shrink wrapped' despite humidity and I tried to help too late, the 1st I did help out and seemed strong enough, even made it with 3 day old hatchmates for a night and two days, but rest of "little flock" japs & silky's too boisterous and it did not make it.
I want to say doomed if ya do
doomed if ya don't so follow your instincts, silent prayer that what should be will be, while you peel shell off chick
I had a bad experience just last week, two had pipped and the first had taken a good 40 hours to progress, the 2nd seemed to be stronger, so a little less concerned with it. Long story short, 2nd chick ended up 'shrink wrapped' despite humidity and I tried to help too late, the 1st I did help out and seemed strong enough, even made it with 3 day old hatchmates for a night and two days, but rest of "little flock" japs & silky's too boisterous and it did not make it.
I want to say doomed if ya do
doomed if ya don't so follow your instincts, silent prayer that what should be will be, while you peel shell off chick