Shrink wrapping

[chestnutnightmare]

Another question (sorry guys)

I have 2 eggs that have started hatching this morning, but they both appeared to have shrink wrapped. The membrane isn't leathery yet but I can see it drying and encasing these babies. My problem is that they both appear to have active veins which is

why I don't want to go any further. I had to open the yellow chick up because the membrane was encasing it's head and it couldn't breathe, hence the blood. They are under a broody hen so I can't control humidity etc. Will they be okay overnight and then assist if they need it in the morning once veins are dry?

Thanks heaps for your help.

 

[junebuggena]

They would have been fine. Those membranes look just fine. It can take over 24 hours from the first break in the shell for a chick to finish hatching. You may have done more harm than good by opening them so much, and it was definitely too soon.

 

[sylviethecochin]

I've read that you should put oil on that to keep the membranes moist after opening the shells that far. I would definitely do that. You've also compromised the structural integrity of the eggshell, which was already weakened when the chick absorbed some of the nutrients out of it to make his bones.

I'd also put them under the fluffiest part of your hens so that they don't accidentally get smooshed. I would also periodically check on those to be sure she hasn't cracked them open further. If she has, you'll have to make a temporary brooder or risk losing the chicks. Unless she opens them further (by putting weight on them) don't touch. Just look and leave.

Good luck.

 

[chestnutnightmare]

The chicks opened most of the shell up themselves, the hens pretty good with not crushing the eggs I'll check on her once more before i go to bed and then see what's happening in the morning

 

[chestnutnightmare]

2 healthy chicks... thanks for your help guys.

 

[Chicken Whisper101]

2 healthy chicks... thanks for your help guys.

Are your chicks fine now?

 

[chestnutnightmare]

Are your chicks fine now?

Yes, they were born yesterday morning very healthy and active.

 

[Chicken Whisper101]

Yes, they were born yesterday morning very healthy and active.

I'm Glad you got things figured out.