I was hoping someone could give me a little guidance. My silkie is setting on a clutch of eggs I ordered for her. this is only week two but one of them hatched this morning. Since she is still setting I brought it inside. It's been a while since i had day old chicks. It isn't standing yet and isn't strong enough to hold it's head up long. Is that normal. Should I dip it's beak in water yet? Will it be a couple days before it needs starter feed? It has a little membrane dried on it's head should I try to soak if off with a damp cotton ball? Thanks for help. TJ
You do have it under a heat lamp, dont you? If so, I'd wait till it fluffed out and found its sea legs before you try to do anything about the membrane or even showing it water. Two weeks incubation? Are you sure? Weird. Wait a day or so and see if it's going to live, then you can dip its beak and sprinkle a little starter on the floor and tap with your finger like its mama showing it how to eat.
If you set all the eggs at the same time I say put it back in the nest. Momma will sit for another day or till they all hatch and she will take it from there.