broody hen and eggs

[medictrina]

I tried searching the forums but couldn't find one to help. I have a broody Australorp that I put 11 fertilized eggs under. She has been a very good mama-to-be. It is day 24 and no chicks, holes or any signs of hatching. I haven't candled them in a few days but most were viable at 15 days and some shells are too thick to candle.

How long should I leave the eggs under her? When should I do the float test? If no eggs hatch, any recommendations on replacing failed eggs with chicks.

Thanks a bunch!

 

[JacinLarkwell]

DO NOT do a float test. You'll drown any that are viable. Mama *should* eventually abandon the nest when she feels there's no hope for them

 

[Weeg]

If you are worried about the momma not getting babies, you could buy some 1-2 day old chicks to slip under her at night or early in the morning, so she will at leas have some adoption chicks! You might want try to candle the eggs to see if they might be viable.