trouble finding beak during assisted hatch

[muircheartaigh]

Hi all,

After reading an excellent thread on assisted hatching I have reached a point of confusion. I have created an external pip after checking for pips, chirps, and movement in day 22 of my hatch without finding any. I had 30 of 35 hatch but the last 5 haven't hatched yet (barred rock and black australorp). I cannot locate the beak, and I don't want to continue on without advice, even if I can save one. What should I do? Sit and wait? Try to find the beak on the small end? If I find it, ahould I expose it and allow the hatch to continue.

All advice is welcome!

 

[WalnutHill]

The odds of finding the beak on the small end is very small, and the odds of hitting a blood vessel are quite large. I'd suggest draping a damp paper towel over the egg (to help restore and preserve moisture) and allow it a chance to try to hatch.

It may not hatch on its own, but without a pip to help guide you, assistance is likely to be a greater risk.

 

[muircheartaigh]

I have them sitting on a damp towel with the air cell end opened. The inner membrane is in tact so I will wait it out. What signs should I look for quitting? The chicks are fully developed. All advice appreciated.