Hatching concern

[Moonwillow]

I am currently in lock down with 5 runner duck eggs. I started with 6 but it showed no signs of fertility when candled at 10 days. The remaining eggs all showed normal signs throughout. I stopped turning at day 25. It is now day 28 and there are no signs of pipping or movement. Should I attempt to candle and see if I can see movement inside. This is my first time. Many thanks in advance.

 

[Marigold]

HimMoonwillo, and welcome to the Forum.
I'm going to transfer your query to the Waterfow section about incubation and hatching, where I hope you'll get some expert advice.

 

[chrismahon]

I doubt you will see any movement Moonwillow if you candled now- just a black mass and you may disorientate any chicks manoeuvring to pip. If your incubation temperature was a tiny fraction low the hatch can be delayed by a day, or longer if the error was greater. This all depends on your machine. If the air sack hasn't developed because the incubation humidity was too high the chick won't be able to manoeuvre to pip. I'd wait at least 3 more days anyway.

 

[Moonwillow]

Thank you for your reply. I'll hang tight for another 3 days. Fingers crossed x

 

[dorsetduckowner]

Hiya I would wait too... It's nail biting stuff but you must resist! Sometimes they take 24-48 hours to get out!
Zo
X

 

[Moonwillow]

So worried as I haven't seen any of the eggs so much as tremble, let alone rock and roll as I have read they do whilst the duckling gets into position.

 

[dorsetduckowner]

Keep us posted!

 

[Moonwillow]

Now on day 30 and nothing happening. Should I do the water test I've read of.

 

[dorsetduckowner]

I don't know what that is? You could try candling one, but be quick.

 

[Marigold]

I wondered what humidity levels you had set the ncubstor to, as you don't mention this.

 

[Moonwillow]

Came home to piping evidence and chirping. It's happening at last !!!!

 

[dorsetduckowner]

Congratulations!

 

[Moonwillow]

Fingers crossed for healthy ducklings xx

 

[Moonwillow]

Yeah first duckling safely out. Others showing good signs of zipping soon. Thanks everyone for your advice to sit tight. X

 

[Moonwillow]

4 ducklings hatched out of five eggs. Giving the last egg another 24 hrs .

 

[chickenfan]

That's great news Moonwillow!

 

[dorsetduckowner]

pictures please!