Now I know that hatching chickens is NOT an easy task. Out of 27 eggs, only 14 made it to week 2 and then NONE of my eggs hatched. I think my humidity was off. According to all the experts, chicken eggs need 70-80% humidity the last 3 days of the hatch, so I need to add extra water to my incubator.
I am already collecting eggs to try again.
I know, I'm crazy. I autopsied my un-hatched eggs. The chickens were almost completely formed but the inner membrane was VERY thick and tough. Obviously, they needed more humidity.
I am a Biologist - I LOVE this stuff. My little inner scientist totally exploded when I started looking at the un-hatched chicks. I examined their little beaks, wings, and feet. I explored how the yolk was attached and how the little egg-tooth on it's beak should have been used to crack through the egg.
Although I was excited to autopsy, I was also crushed at the loss of the little things. Also, when my children's faces fell to devastation at the news, there was only one thing I could do for them.
Run to Wilco Feed Store and let them pick out some new baby pullets!
I'm not ready to give up. I will try incubating again and soon - this time with a better way to monitor humidity AND to be sure I keep it high towards the end of their hatch.
So sad - but like anything else it's a learning process. Good luck with the next batch! My dad always bought his chickens in pullet form - he never tried to incubate and hatch his own.
Posted by: Sayre | February 15, 2013 at 10:05 AM
Try again..do you have a humidity gauge to put inside the incubator?? I am sure you will succeed soon..that chick looks all formed:)
Posted by: Far Side of Fifty | February 16, 2013 at 03:56 PM
Can you buy or borrow a broody Banty hen? Absolutely the best way to hatch and raise chicks:)
Posted by: Karen Brandson | March 09, 2013 at 07:13 AM