Very hard egg shells

[Godiva]

I have a couple of hens that have extremely tough eggshells. My last hatch those were the only ones that didn't hatch. They got all the way, but were unable to pip. I have had to put the one hen down (internal issues) and would really like to be able to get some of her babies. Is there anyway I can help these chicks out? How do I know how and when? I have boosted the humidity to hopefully soften the shells a bit, but I really don't think that's going to be enough. I really have to hit these eggs very sharply on the edge of a bowl to get them to crack at all... I can't imagine a chick being able to break through, and as I said, these are the only ones that don't hatch. Please help!

 

[Godiva]

I forgot to say that we're on day 21 today. Others have started hatching and nothing from the titanium shelled eggs yet. I am contemplating creating a pip in the air cell so that they can at least get air once they pip internally? What do you think? Anyone?

 

[Godiva]

Just hoping someone can give me input?

 

[Chicalina]

I don't know what else you can do except create a pip. That is what I'd do

 

[MARANMAN2011]

I think humidity needs to be alot higher to penetrate and soften eggs. I would try to put one in and see what happens.

 

[Godiva]

I do have the humidity up - what do you recommend I aim for?

 

[Ruby Rogue]

I would candle them to see if they're internally pipped, and if so create a safety hole, then after some time do a full assist. If they can't make it out on their own.

 

[Godiva]

I would candle them to see if they're internally pipped, and if so create a safety hole, then after some time do a full assist. If they can't make it out on their own.

At the moment the rest of the eggs are still hatching - I'll have to wait for those to be done first. I hope it won't be too late for them! What humidity do you think I should aim for?

 

[MARANMAN2011]

At the moment the rest of the eggs are still hatching - I'll have to wait for those to be done first. I hope it won't be too late for them! What humidity do you think I should aim for?

Shells so thick maybe 70

 

[Godiva]

I had a decent hatch after all. Thanks for the tips and support