My Dutch tend to stay with the little ones for 8 weeks. And it wouldn't surprise me is a broody makes this decision after she knows it's okay to leave them. A little chick may extend her care.I read that broodies could start sending their chicks away from that time and just did not think "from" meant they could keep them longer . Of course you're right! She loves caring for them, it's obvious she is way more happy now than before she had them so there's no reason to believe she would put an early end to their bond! Thank you so much !