Hatching Black copper Marans

[Runin4k]

Hi new here. I am hatching my first flock of chickens to be used for egg laying . Have a variety of mixed breeds from a friends flock and some Black copper Maran eggs bought from a breeder also some crossed with the Maran to get the rich colored eggs. I have the Maran eggs and the crosses in a separate incubator keeping the humidity down to 35% and upped it to 55-60% as instructed by the breeder for lock down hatching period (on day 19) All other eggs are in an incubator set at a higher humidity 45-55% for incubation and now 65-70% for hatching . Question on theses thicker darker colored Maran and Maran crossed eggs …. I’ve learned they have thicker shells and have a hard time hatching and often die by being unable to get out, any advice on this would be much appreciated, would poking a hole in the end to allow air to help them along once the 21 day passes be a good idea? Saw on a you tube video a person used an Emory board to help thin out the shell on the pip end of egg to help them get out any advice do’s or don’t please.

 

[Raisin_The_Chicken]

Hello and welcome!!

 

[Debbie292d]

Hiya, and welcome to BYC!

I hatch a lot, but never Marans, so let me tag a friend who does. Oh, @wrathsfarm, please come advise!

 

[Burnt Brass Homestead]

Hi @Runin4k

I do not know much about Maran eggs, but I am sure someone will provide some advice shortly.

Welcome!

 

[janiedoe]

Welcome to BYC. I'm sure someone here will be able to advise you.

 

[wrathsfarm]

Welcome to BYC. I would follow your breeders advice for your BCM. That humidity sounds great and what I would recommend also. I can't comment on the sanding of eggs as I've never done it with mine.

 

[chrissynemetz]

Hi, and welcome to BYC! We're so glad you decided to join us! Make yourself at home!

 

[N F C]

Hi, you might get additional help by posting your question in this forum: Incubating & Hatching

Good luck!

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

 

[muddy75]