How long can broody hen leave eggs?

[George678]

Hi I’ve got a broody hen sat on some duck eggs I’m just worried the hen will leave the nest around day 21. I’ve got other broody hens that could sit the rest if she decides to abandon them , but how long can she leave the nest without harming the eggs? Thanks

 

[MGG]

Hi I’ve got a broody hen sat on some duck eggs I’m just worried the hen will leave the nest around day 21. I’ve got other broody hens that could sit the rest if she decides to abandon them , but how long can she leave the nest without harming the eggs? Thanks

Are you worried about her taking breaks or that she'll not sit the full time because duck eggs take longer?
Hens can safely take an hour long break if the eggs are less than a week old, after that they can be off a few times for an hour or so each, especially if it's warm out.

Chicken hens don't know how to count days and most time will keep sitting until something hatches, no matter how long it takes.