[nickif]

Hi, this is my 1st post so be gentle with me. I have checked on my eggs this morning ready to turn them as only day 23 only to find one has pipped and I can hear cheeping. What should I do? Should I turn the others as usual? Will the pipped egg be viable? Any answers/advice greatly appreciated. Nicki

[doganjo]

I wouldn't turn them unless you take that one out first, keep it level, then turn, then put it back, assuming you are turning manually.  It was maybe already started when they went in - no ideas how though unless they are from your own birds and Mum had sat for a day or so.  Or - is it a duck - not a chicken?  Eggs can look similar.  I had one pipped early but it died when fully out as it still had a lot of yolk sac attached.  HTH

[nickif]

I have taken your advice and turned the rest. Not had this problem before. I purchased the eggs from eBay so cannot understand why it is happening early. Am just going to hope for the best. Nicki

[doganjo]

The reasoning is that it might have drowned in what liquid was left in the shell if you had turned it with the others.  Just wait and see if it comes out altogether but if it looks like it is struggling you can break some of the shell around the top to help a little.  Ebay eggs are no different to others - sometimes if they have broodies they are already part hatched.

[nickif]

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. Just had a peek through the incy window and hatching seems to be progressing. Trying not to get too excited. Nicki

[nickif]

Mystery solved. Duckling not too early. It's a chick!!! Nicki

[doganjo]

Ha ha ha,  I DID ask the question! The beak is usually a good clue he he   Glad all is OK!

[nickif]

1st trout Indian runner duckling hatched at 9.30 this morning 

[doganjo]

Great news - need photos now!