How long does it take chicks to hatch after they start to pip?
Although there is individual variation, approximately 80% of the chicks will hatch within 15 hours after the first chick hatches (slightly less for waterfowl). A hatch should be completed within 24 hours. Hold eggs that have not hatched by this time to your ear. You can assume the egg will not hatch if you do not hear movement. Or better yet, candle them to determine the progress. Smaller eggs in a lot hatch faster than the larger eggs. White Leghorn eggs hatch sooner than eggs from heavy breeds. The longer eggs are held prior to incubation, the slower they hatch.
