Should I intervene?

[jwyles]

I've got a broody on three eggs at day 18. I was checking under her today bc she is still in the coop with the other hens and one occasionally lays in her nest. I notice two eggs with cracks. One appears to have broken from the inside like it pipped but the membrane was not broken and looked to be drying out. Pretty sure I saw movement from the chick. How long should I wait before I intervene? Does anyone have tips on how to handle this? It may be normal but the drying membrane concerned me.

 

[Jbently28]

You can always use a small bit of tape or wax to cover the cracks. Day 18 is pretty early to be popping but not unheard of. If the membranes are still intact and you're just concerned with them drying out you can always use a small bit of coconut oil to moisten them. I wouldn't intervene any other way at the moment other than possibly blocking off the nest so the other hens can't get to them.

 

[jwyles]

No intervention needed. My first olive egger hatched by my lavender Ameraucana. So excited!