Do Setting Hens leave the nest?

[Ruffian78]

Ended up with a Rooster out of some baby chicks, decided to keep him. Never had a Rooster before so this is All new to me…he has been mounting the girls…he’s about 6 mos.old so we’re not even sure if he is ready yet. Well, one of the hens is setting on some eggs but DOES NOT LEAVE that nest. Tried to give her some food/water … she’s not interested. Do they remain on the eggs continuously?

 

[HollowOfWisps]

She most likely is leaving when you’re not around. Once they start setting they usually only leave the next once a day for about 10 minutes to eat and drink quick. Before going broody they will eat more to pack on more fat and then once they go broody they will slowly start to lose weight.