What should I do if my broody hen will not leave the nest? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your broody hen won’t leave the nest, she may simply be in a strong broody phase. That said, it’s worth checking she’s still eating, drinking and moving normally, because broodiness can sometimes overlap with other issues or lead to problems if she stays put too long.
Things To Check
1. Check whether she’s getting off the nest at least once or twice a day to eat, drink and poo.
2. Look for changes in her comb, skin and vents, including paleness, soiling, discharge or swelling.
3. Feel whether her body condition seems different from usual, especially if she’s losing weight.
4. Watch for droppings nearby, as a broody hen may leave large droppings less often but should still pass them.
5. Check the nest for damp bedding, broken eggs or signs that the area is becoming dirty or uncomfortable.
6. Notice whether she seems weak, fluffed up, unusually quiet or unwilling to stand when disturbed.
7. Observe the rest of the flock, as pecking, bullying or lack of access to feed and water can make the problem worse.
Common Causes
The most common reason is straightforward broodiness. A hen can become highly committed to sitting and may resist leaving the nest, even when she does not have fertile eggs.
Sometimes the hen is simply unsettled by nest box conditions, flock pressure or habit. If she’s been sitting for a while, the nest can become a preferred safe spot.
Less commonly, illness, pain or weakness can make a hen reluctant to move. In those cases, the nesting behaviour may be part of a wider problem rather than broodiness on its own.
What To Do
Make sure she has easy access to fresh water and a good feed close by, and check she’s not being bullied away from resources.
Keep the nesting area clean, dry and not too warm, and remove any stale bedding or broken eggs.
If you don’t want her to continue sitting, calmly lift her off the nest a few times a day and encourage normal activity. Some owners find that reducing access to cosy nesting spots can help break the cycle, but it may take time.
Keep an eye on her weight, droppings and behaviour over the next few days. If she’s bright, eating and drinking, that’s reassuring. If not, it’s sensible to get advice.
Products That May Help
Keeping the coop and nesting area clean and easy to manage can make it simpler to look after a broody hen and monitor her condition.
Related Questions
How long can a broody hen stay on the nest?
How do I stop a hen going broody?
Should I let a broody hen hatch eggs?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.