Jumping bail before hatching

[Sandy Berry]

Does anyone know why my hen, who has been broody for the first time, has suddenly abandoned her nest of eggs? They were approximately a week or less from hatching. She's been diligent about setting, except for to get a bite to eat & to get a drink, however, last night when I went out to lock the chickens up, she was not on the nest. She has gone to roost with the rest of the flock. I'm puzzled! Thanks in advance for any info!

 

[LaFleche]

There are probably mites in the nest or mice/rats/snakes that forced her off the nest.

Check her well for any parasites and clean out the nest as well as the surroundings.

In case you have an incubator you might want to candle the eggs and try to save the ones that are still alive and well developed.