EGG-HATCHING projects are becoming increasingly popular with teachers and primary school pupils as a classroom activity.

Unfortunately, little consideration is usually given to the chicks or ducklings once they are hatched.

It is very difficult to provide optimal conditions in a classroom incubator and, as a result, chicks may be sickly, dehydrated and poorly developed when they hatch.

Chick organs often stick to the sides of the shell as a result of the eggs not being turned properly.

Animal Aid is repeatedly being contacted by parents and teachers concerned about the fate of the birds once the school has finished with them.

Some teachers have reported that birds have been born with deformities and needed veterinary attention.

Animal Aid has worked alongside a number of sanctuaries in the UK and consulted with the RSPCA and the British Hen Welfare Trust to produce a factsheet highlighting certain issues that schools should be aware of before embarking on these projects.

To download or order a factsheet visit www.animalaid.org.uk/HatchingProjects

Karin Reynolds, Education service co-ordinator, Animal Aid, Tonbridge