Mr. Belle incubated duck eggs for release into our 8-1/2 acre wetlands environmental area. Unfortunately, due to rough handling and cold temperatures in their trip from North Carolina, none of the dozen eggs hatched. Students watched as 4 of the eggs showed some signs of development, up until the 4th week of incubation. The farmer who sent them has offered to replace the eggs, and we are anxiously awaiting their arrival.
In the meantime, neighbors from our community donated fertile eggs from their flock of chickens. Those incubated for three weeks, showing good progress. Three chicks hatched on Monday, March 24th. The students have welcomed them to the school and have been thrilled with their constant activity and rapid growth.
Funding for the incubator and related equipment was provided by the Dr. Brown P.T.O., and their support of the science program at our school is deeply appreciated.
The ducks are scheduled to hatch in approximately: