Well that was a little more stressful than i had anticipated. Watching the tiny little chicks fighting to escape from their shells, willing them out. Then when they finally emerge seeing them collapse draped over the next egg, exausted and checking to make sure they are still breathing! 12 of the 24 hatched in the end. The others are still in the incubator in case there are any late hatchers but there are no signs of life. One of the 12 died shortly after hatching. We knew something was wrong immediately. It looked as though some of its internal organs were external. I know it's probably terrible to say but i did feel quite relieved that it died on its own. I know i will have to do it some time but having to cull a tiny new born chick on my first ever hatch filled me with dread.

The 11 remaining are very lively little characters, quite happy to hop on your hand and peck your fingers if you put them in the brooder. They are all huddled together sleeping under the heat as i type. Here are a few pictures of the fluff balls! I really need to practice photographing moving things!

The first one pipping.

First one out.

All fluffed up!

Chicken in a basket!

For the record i had 24 eggs in a R-Com Suro incubator; 12 Maran and 12 Maran x Legbar. 12 hatched; 7 Maran and 5 Maran x Legbar. 1 Maran x Legbar died. The incubator was run 'dry' for the first 18 days but the humidity settled at around 43 and was upped to 60 on day 19. Will have a think about what to tweak for next time.

On a different note there has been some much needed rain today which has been refreshing for plants and people alike! Grace enjoyed splashing in puddles in her Peppa Pig wellies this afternoon.