Will a hen try to hatch eggs that are not fertilized? My rooster died!

[pooponshoe]

The rooster dies about 10 days ago and I don't know how long to allow her to sit there.

 

[silkiechicken]

Hens will sit on empty nests. It's hormonal. If the eggs are not fertile, *can be for up to 3 weeks after rooster is gone*, try to break her.

 

[Cuban Longtails]

Yes, a broody will try to hatch golf balls sometimes. Now, before you decide to toss those eggs... Had the rooster been mating with her? If he has, there is a chance they are fertile eggs. How long has she been sitting on them? Sometimes you can candle after about a week to tell if the eggs are developing anything.

 

[hypnofrogstevie]

Do you want to hatch them?