Do eggs hatch under the hen?

[Chicks Galore3]

My broody's eggs are due to hatch in 12 days. I've had a broody hatch eggs before, but they hatched in the middle of the night so I wasn't there! But then I got to thinking...could you even see them hatching? Do the eggs hatch under the hen, or out in the open? I'd imagine having a someone poking out of a shell wouldn't be very comfortable to sit on...

 

[chickcrack]

It will all happen under your hen. Don't disturb or lift her. You will know they are close to hatching because she will refuse to leave the nest for even a few minutes to get a drink or food. If it's super hot try to get water within reach for her. I've only let broodiest hatch twice but babies were hatched and dry before I even knew they were out!