Days 17-21: Happy Birthday! How the Chick Hatches The following description of how the chick hatches from its shell comes from our online resource From Egg To Chick. Pictures have been added to illustrate the process being described. From Egg To Chick contains many pieces of useful information, though some of that information we have written about in greater detail here in these embryology pages. The instructions on how to build an incubator and how to take care of the chicks after they hatch are invaluable, and are recommended reading. HOW THE CHICK EMERGES FROM THE SHELL The head of the chick develops at the large end of the egg. Between the 15th and 16th days, the chick orients itself so that its head is near the air cell at the large end of the egg. Not long before the chick is ready to attempt to make its way out of the shell its neck acquires a double bend so that its beak is under its right wing and pointed toward the air cell. About the 19th day the chick thrusts its head forward. Its beak quickly breaks through the inner shell membrane, and the chick's lungs begin to function. … Continue reading →