Commercial laying hens are bred for the highest possible egg production, and broodiness is considered an undesirable trait. For generations, broodiness has been systematically suppressed through selective breeding, because a hen that sits on eggs stops laying for a certain period, resulting in reduced egg production. In modern commercial flocks, broodiness is therefore rather rare. Nevertheless, it can still occur, especially in less common hybrid combinations or certain color varieties where selection pressure against maternal instinct has not been as strong.

The absence of broodiness — or, conversely, strongly developed maternal instincts — is largely a breed characteristic. In traditional breeds, especially heavier dual-purpose or meat breeds, as well as many bantam breeds, natural instincts are preserved. These hens go broody more often, sometimes even repeatedly within one season. Once a hen lays a certain number of eggs, hormonal changes trigger broodiness. Her behavior and vocalization change — instead of regular clucking, she produces a deeper, muted “cluck-cluck,” fluffs up her feathers, stays in the nest, and defends it against other hens. If given the opportunity, she will sit on the eggs for the entire incubation period, which for chicken eggs lasts approximately 21 days. After the chicks hatch, she cares for them for about another month — keeping them warm, leading them to food, and protecting them from danger.

If broodiness is undesirable — which is the case when we do not intend to raise chicks — it is necessary to act as soon as possible. The hen should not be allowed access to a full nest of eggs or a quiet place to sit. At the first signs of broodiness, she should be separated from the flock and placed in a so-called “broody-breaking cage.” This cage should be well-ventilated, ideally with a wire or slatted floor so the hen cannot sit comfortably and the underside of her body cools down. It is recommended to suspend the cage above the ground to allow air circulation. During broodiness, a hen has an elevated body temperature, and cooling helps stop the hormonal process. Feed may be slightly reduced for a few days, but fresh water must always be available. Broodiness usually subsides within a few days.

Hormonal treatments that interfere with the hen’s reproductive cycle can also be used to suppress broodiness. However, in small-scale or backyard farming, this method is rarely used due to cost and preference for more natural management.

If, on the other hand, we decide to use broodiness for natural hatching, it is important to know the basic rules. The length of incubation depends on the type of egg:

• Chicken eggs hatch in 21 days
• Duck eggs in approximately 28 days
• Goose eggs in 30–32 days

One broody hen can incubate approximately 12–15 chicken eggs, 9–11 duck eggs, or about 5 goose eggs, depending on the size of the hen and the season.

The nest should be placed in a dark, quiet location without drafts. Bedding such as straw or wood shavings is suitable, and before placing fertile eggs, it is advisable to test the hen’s commitment using dummy eggs. The hen must have easy access to water and feed near the nest. Care mainly involves regular checks to ensure she is eating and drinking. Most hens leave the nest briefly once a day to drink, eat, and defecate. A broody hen naturally turns the eggs, ensuring even embryo development. Adequate humidity is also important for proper hatching. The advantage of natural rearing is that the hen maintains optimal conditions herself and provides warmth and protection after the chicks hatch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does a broody hen sit on eggs?

A broody hen sits on chicken eggs for 21 days.

• Days 1–18: the eggs are incubated
• Last 3 days: the chicks hatch
• Ideal temperature under the hen: approx. 37–38 °C (98.6–100.4 °F)
• The hen gets up briefly each day (to drink and relieve herself)

2. How long does a hen sit on chicken eggs?

For chicken eggs → 21 days.
This applies to almost all chicken breeds.

3. How long does a hen (or turkey) sit on turkey eggs?

A hen can also hatch turkey eggs.

• Turkey eggs: 28 days

Important:

• The hen must be a strong broody hen
• Place fewer eggs under her (they are larger than chicken eggs)
• Ensure peace and dryness

4. How long does a hen sit on goose eggs?

• Goose eggs: 30–31 days

A hen can hatch them, but:

• Goose eggs are large → she can manage fewer (e.g., 3–5 eggs)
• They require higher humidity
• Success rates are usually lower than with a goose

For goose eggs, a goose or an incubator is preferable, but a hen can manage.

5. How to Prepare a Nest for a Broody Hen

A proper nest is very important.

Location:

• Quiet, slightly dark place
• Separate from other hens
• Free from drafts

Size:

• Approx. 35 × 35 cm (14 × 14 in) for a hen
• Higher edge to prevent eggs from rolling out

Bedding:

• Straw or wood shavings
• Slightly shape a hollow in the center
• Keep dry and clean

Care:

• Separate the broody hen from others
• Provide water and feed nearby
• Check eggs regularly (remove broken ones immediately)