Incubating and Hatching Homegrown Chicks Quotes

“As you can probably tell by now, I'm a very hands-on incubationist, so the advice in this section will fly in the face of conventional wisdom.  However, as long as you keep the humidity and temperature at the right levels using the tips in the last section, you can be as hands-on as you want with no ill effect.  In fact, helping chicks when they need it will increase your hatch rates and decrease your angst as a chick struggles and then perishes in the shell. On the other hand, I wouldn't recommend helping chicks out of the shell unless all of the following criteria apply to you: You have some sort of critical care unit prepared.  Chicks you help out of the shell are likely to be weak and will need some extra time in a warm spot where they can't be picked on. ”
― Anna Hess, Incubating and Hatching Homegrown Chicks: Perpetuate a Self-Sufficient Backyard Flock!