Broody hen found in woods with clutch of eggs...now what?

[dlebongort]

Hello! Our feisty hen Gwen has been on hiatus for a week. We recently tracked her down and found her sitting on fifteen eggs in the woods! I've created a cozy spot for her in the coop using a large dog kennel, covered it with blankets so its dark. She's upset, but I'm hoping she'll settle in if I leave her. She broke one egg, and it looked like pure yolk with a large red spot. My question is this: how can I tell if these eggs will result in chicks? I have no idea how old they are, or for how long the flocks been laying in the woods. We'd love to hatch chicks, but are wondering if they're duds. If they are, we could give her some good eggs and date them, but since she has such a large clutch, I don't know if we should add any. Anyone experience this? Any information or advice is much appreciated!

 

[CocoPopz]

I would leave the eggs a bit longer, try locking her in a small box with the eggs and Mae it very dark and quiet, she should calm down, she might accidents break a few more eggs but don't worry, also I wouldn't place any more under her because once they've hatched (if they do) she would lead the other eggs to go off with chicks. Some of the eggs might not even hatch but I'd leave her probably 2 week then try candling one?

 

[CocoPopz]

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