How long should I let my hen set on her eggs?

[LeghornGuy]

One of my white leghorn hen hatched 6 eggs and she has 6 more eggs that did not hatch. when she started to sit on the eggs some of the other hens layed eggs while she was sitting.
Should I let her try to hatch the other eggs?
Will she stop trying to hatch the other eggson her own?
The chicks are two days old as of April 30th. The chicks are very active.
I noticed one of the eggs is cracked and you can see a thin film or membrane of the egg.

Also, she has lost a lot of weight but she continues to sit on the eggs.
She appears to be a good mother.
Her feathers are ruffled when we approach the nesting box.

http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll201/TKE496_Cat/Henwithchicks.jpg

I just figured out how to post a pic.
It took my 10 year old son to show me how.

 

[ascott1978]

I'd remove the new eggs. She likely to abandon them in a day or so when the older eggs, either hatch or don't.

 

[TommyVT05]

Hello,

I think next time, - from looking @ the pixs - having more hay would do good. You will get a great hatch rate because the hay will retain the heat...easier...: )

- Tommy

 

[LeghornGuy]

Thanks Tommy!
I realized it now that you mentioned it.
I have another hen and she hatched 6 out of 8 eggs.
The hen in the picture hatched 7 of the 12 eggs.
I do not know if it is due to the fertility rate/ratio of hens to rooster or if it is due to less hay in the nest box.

Where were you when I needed advice, tips and suggestion?
Just kidding

good luck with your flock

 

[reallemons1]

She will need to leave the nest very soon to take care of the needs of her little cuties!

 

[TommyVT05]

Quote:
You are very welcome : )
Glad I could help

Anytime

So...how far along are the chicks. Any pictures? I would love to see.

Take care!

- Tommy