When to give up on a broody hen.

[Compost King]

I have a broody hen who has been sitting on eggs for well over 21 days. I estimated the 21 day point to be July 4th. So now its about day 38. Is it time to take her eggs and put her back with the rest of the flock? Should I candle the eggs she is sitting on just in case one or 2 might be moving? I know Broody hens can often take long than the 21 days however 38 days seems excessively long.

 

[The Happster]

You won't have any hatching after 38 days.
I would definitely take your girl off her nest.
I've heard of chicks hatching as late as day 25, but certainly not 38 days.
Sorry you didn't get any chicks this time.

 

[Compost King]

You won't have any hatching after 38 days.
I would definitely take your girl off her nest.
I've heard of chicks hatching as late as day 25, but certainly not 38 days.
Sorry you didn't get any chicks this time.

Thats pretty much what I figured, the eggs couldn't stay viable that long even if she was developing them slow. I am still going to candle them just to see what I have. Being Seramas they do tend to not have high hatch rates. They also go broody about 3 times a year so its not like I am stressed over losing one brood. I have way too many chicks and mama birds as it is. Most my hens are on their 2nd clutch of the year right now.