hen hatching eggs question

[RBOutdoors]

I have a bantam Cochin sitting on 5-6 eggs for 23 days now, and I am wondering if I can lift her up to look at the eggs. I just want to check for pipping or cracks and general inspection. I know not to move the eggs much just want to get a glimpse so I can prepare my 4 year old daughter if we are not going to have chicks.

The hen is in the nest box area and I have closed her in with chicken wire. It is a large communal box and had a horrible smell. I am don't think it is rotten egg smell just broody poop smell. She has fresh water and feed in with her and she has done a great job so far.

 

[Judy]

Of course; feel free to lift her out and clean up whatever needs it. They normally leave the nest for up to 30 minutes a day. You may want to wear gloves for the pecking.

She should not be making those broody poops in the nest.; she should be getting up and pooping outside the nest. If she is not getting off the nest, you may have more problems than dead chicks. At 23 days I don't imagine any of the eggs are going to hatch.

 

[donrae]

If it stinks you definitely need to check things out. I agree on the gloves, depending on the hen. I work my hand underneath from behind and just lift them straight up, set them down somewhere else. Good luck.