how many eggs for nesting RIR?

[Firecracker]

Hi. I have had chickens for a while, but have never allowed a hen to nest. I have a RIR hen who is acting broody. How many eggs should I leave under her to let her nest? Does she continue to lay while she is nesting? How many weeks until the eggs hatch? Will I have to bring the chicks in, or leave the raising to her? Thanks for your help?

 

[Cindiloohoo]

I'd give her about 10. She will stop laying. It takes 3 weeks for them to hatch. She will raise them on her own.

 

[Firecracker]

thanks a bunch

 

[Firecracker]

okay, now what? I went to let the chickens out for a while, and the hen was down off the eggs and went on out to peck around. Does that mean she is not broody? How often and for how long do hens come off their clutch?

Thanks,
The Dummy