broody hen

[Rick589]

We have a not quite one year old hen that has gone broody and is sitting on three eggs. Wanting to be sure she is taking a break to tend to herself, which she is, I’ve been keeping a close eye on her. My question is: How long can she be away from the nest? Outside temps are in the 80’s and her amount of time outside varies but has been, at times, at least an hour or longer.

 

[DobieLover]

but has been, at times, at least an hour or longer.

That's perfectly normal. She can stay off longer. She knows what she's doing! They've been doing it without human assistance for centuries!

 

[Rick589]

That's perfectly normal. She can stay off longer. She knows what she's doing! They've been doing it without human assistance for centuries!

Appreciate the reply. I figured she knew what she was doing but I had to ask. Besides, it gives me a chance to ‘speak’ to people like you and get reassured or corrected, which ever is appropriate.