Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Terminal Tower: first pip!
This image from 11:09 am, Tuesday, April 22, 2008, clearly shows a pip site on one of the eggs. Scott Wright arrived on site at 11:30 and had first hand confirmation of the pip. By the time Museum staff arrived on scene at approx. 3:00 pm. the opening had been enlarged to the size of a dime. We expect the hatch to be completed tonight.
Pipping is the act of creating a breach in the shell and shell membrane so that the chick can establish respiratory function. After the pip there is a quiet phase where the chick draws blood back into its body from the shell membrane.
Once complete, the chick will then vigorously score the inside of the shell with its egg tooth while simultaneously pushing against the blunt cap of the egg with its neck. After scoring the shell for two thirds of its circumference the chick pushes against the cap and it flexes back enough for the chick to push its way out. It generally takes 24-36 hours between the onset of the pip and actual hatching. The parents do not assist in the hatching process. Since the hole was being rapidly enlarged during the day, the pip probably occurred Monday afternoon.
De Mortel: afternoon feeding
S2 is getting the hang of it and has been feeding her two babies every 2-3 hours now. Great Job! They are looking very strong, these two, and eating well! By the looks of it they can scream and beg until they had enough. We remember from last year that S2 doesn't take no for an answer: eat until you drop. She really stuffed Hope and Faith. So these two will probably grow up to be piggy´s as well.
What about the other two eggs. They are most likely not viable and won´t hatch. If they do those eyases will have quite a job to catch up with these two firstborns, who are so much bigger and stronger. But I do not expect them to hatch anymore. This is S2 her first clutch, and very often there are eggs that are not viable in first clutches. Two hatches is a great result!
On a personal level it touches me greatly to see my beloved S2 now with her own very first babies. Enjoy it great falconlady, you deserve only the very best. Make them great and strong like you are yourself, so these babies will rule the skies as mighty falcons and live long and prosper. For now they are just very little white fluffies, raptors to be.
Columbus Ohio
Cobb Island: first hatch!
Cleveland Terminal Tower: first hatch on it's way!
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