chicken breeds
chicken breeds on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 317 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on chicken breeds in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Chickens. Everything there is to know about chickens and the fear of them. New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around chicken breeds, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Alektorophobia is covering right now.
Trying to work out if my aracunas are Roosters or Hens
Are you scratching your head over whether your Aracunas are roosters or hens? You’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves in this feathery dilemma, and it can be tricky to tell the difference, especially with young chicks. Based in New Zealand, our friend u/ThrowawayAd5053 has some adorable coop photos (sorry for the not-so-great quality!) of two chicks they’ve raised since day one. While they’re 99% convinced that both are roosters, they’re reaching out for some expert opinions to confirm their suspicions. The appearance of Aracunas can indeed vary by region, so if you have a keen eye for chicken anatomy or a soft spot for these quirky birds, lend a hand and help decipher this cluck-tastic mystery!
Broken keel bone. Help needed.
I've been nursing a 19-20 week feral hen with a likely broken keel bone for three weeks, initially mistaking her injury for a leg sprain. Today, I noticed her crooked sternum, confirming my suspicions. Despite my efforts to provide care—like using a towel harness to support her and offering enticing mealworms—her reluctance to move and eat remains concerning. I suspect her injuries may stem from other chickens jumping on her back or a misstep during a jump. She’s been managing some skin irritation from her hammock setup, and her legs show signs of atrophy. I’m reaching out for advice on her recovery and any adjustments I can make to her care routine. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
Identification
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you’ve stumbled upon a cluck-tastic opportunity with those free chickens! At one year old, these feathered friends might not be laying yet, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t full of potential and personality. Identifying the breed can help you understand their needs and quirks, so let’s dive into the details together. Whether they’re fluffy, sleek, or a mix of colors, each breed has its own charm and character. Remember, every chicken has a story to tell, and your new flock may just be the perfect addition to your backyard adventure! Share any photos or details you have, and let’s get cracking on some advice and insights!
First 2 hatches of my breeding project!
Cluck-tastic news from my breeding project! The first two hatchlings have arrived, and they decided to make their grand entrance at the same time—talk about synchronized hatching! These adorable little ones are a delightful mix of my Dark Brahma hen and Green-legged Hatch Game Fowl rooster, and I’m dubbing them "Game Brahmas." They bear a striking resemblance to their mom when she was a chick, but with their own unique flair. And while you can’t see it just yet, they have feathered feet and legs that give them an extra dash of charm. Plus, it looks like one of them might inherit my rooster’s fabulous muff! Stay tuned for more updates on these feathery wonders!
What kind of chickens do you have?
Curious about the feathered friends that make up our quirky flock? We boast an eclectic mix of chicken breeds, each with its own unique charm and personality. Among our cluck-tastic crew, you'll find the vibrant Brabanters, known for their striking looks and lively antics, alongside the delightful Uilebaard, with their distinctive beards that add a touch of whimsy. The Orpingtons, famous for their friendly demeanor and fluffy feathers, are always eager for a cuddle. Not to be outdone, we also have the Amrock, the rich-colored Marans, the rare Silverudd Blå, the graceful Padua, and the impressive Indio Gigante. Each breed brings its own flavor to our coop, creating a delightful, egg-citing experience for all chicken enthusiasts!
It’s chick season! What is your favorite breed, and why?
It’s chick season, and that means it’s time to celebrate our feathered friends! Whether you’re a seasoned chicken whisperer or just dipping your toes into the world of poultry, there’s something utterly charming about each breed. Personally, I’ve got a delightful flock of Brahmas (both light and dark), Americanas, EEs, and a lavender Orpington that has completely stolen my heart. Among them, my Shirley girley stands out as the sweetest little puppy dog chicken you could ever meet! She adores snuggles and treats every bit of handling like a precious gift. I can’t say if all lavender Orpingtons are as lovable, but she sure knows how to bring joy to my days. What’s your favorite breed, and what makes them special to you?
Rooster crowing dynamics
Rooster crowing dynamics can be quite fascinating, especially with a duo like Chip and Mochi! Chip, the dominant Polish cockerel, practices his crowing all day while charming the ladies and strutting his stuff. In contrast, Mochi, the Pekin bantam, has a gentler approach to life. After a healing period away from the flock, he’s grown friendly and cuddly but only joins in the morning chorus when Chip sets the tone. Their bond is sweet, and it’s heartening to see that they don’t fight, even with Chip’s crowing overshadowing Mochi’s quieter nature. If separated into breeding flocks, will Mochi feel emboldened to crow at other times? This dynamic could change, but for now, Mochi’s quiet demeanor is a delightful contrast to Chip’s vocal antics!
What Kind of Chicken is This?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken identification! We’ve all found ourselves in a cluck-tastically puzzling situation, just like our friend who rescued a young chicken from a busy grocery store parking lot. Now, they’re on a quest to discover the breed of this feathery friend—could it be a mix? With a suspected age of around 8 weeks, knowing whether this little one is a hen or a roo adds another layer of intrigue. If you’ve ever had a Polish chicken, you know the joy of easy sexing, but this little mystery might just keep us on our toes (or should we say, on our talons?). Join the conversation and let’s unravel this chicken conundrum together! Your insights will surely be egg-citing!
Look at this handsome wheaton aseel
Feast your eyes on this handsome wheaton Aseel! Known for their striking appearance and unique personality, Aseels are truly a sight to behold. This particular feathered friend is not just a showstopper; he’s a testament to the beauty of breeding and exhibition. At Rapids Ranch Poultry, we believe in celebrating these magnificent birds without the drama of fighting. Our focus is on highlighting their elegance and charm, making them perfect for showcases rather than the ring. Whether you're a seasoned poultry enthusiast or just beginning your chicken journey, there's something undeniably captivating about Aseels. Join us in appreciating this delightful breed, and let’s cluck about all things poultry together! Check out the comments for more cluck-tastic insights and stories!
This hen has a unique comb
Have you ever spotted a hen with a comb that makes you do a double-take? Unique combs can be a delightful hint at a chicken's breed, showcasing the quirky personalities of our feathered friends. From the elegant rose comb of the Wyandotte to the striking single comb of the Leghorn, each breed flaunts its own distinctive style. If you’re curious about which breed your unusual-combed hen might belong to, you’re in for a cluck-tastic journey! Join us as we explore the fascinating world of chicken breeds and their comb variations. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting your chicken-keeping adventure, this quest for knowledge is sure to bring a smile and maybe even a chuckle. Let’s dive in and uncover the mystery together!
What breed is this?
Introducing our newest feathered friend to the flock! We’ve added seven exciting breeds this year, and this one—who I think and hope is a girl—stands out as the quirkiest of the bunch. With her wild antics and cluck-tastic personality, she’s already captured our hearts (and maybe a few nerves!). Chickens can be a delightful mix of charming and chaotic, and this gal is no exception. From her hilarious attempts to assert her dominance to those moments of pure, silly curiosity, she embodies the playful spirit we all adore in our feathered companions. So, what breed do you think she is? Join the conversation and help us identify this delightful addition to our flock!
What mix do you think he could be?
Meet Ash and her charming Roo, a delightful feathered friend that has captured her heart! At around four months old, Ash is on a quest to uncover his mysterious mix. While an AI suggests he might be a Cream Legbar due to his unique comb, crest, and barred feathers, his light coloring and impressively long tail feathers leave her pondering. Ash got him from a local show bird breeder, who noted he couldn’t participate in shows because of his mixed breed status. Regardless of his heritage, Ash adores him and dreams of starting breeding projects to create more birds like her beloved Roo. As a novice backyard chicken owner, she’s eager to learn and welcomes any insights from fellow chicken enthusiasts!
What breed could she be? This is our mystery girl, her name is Moon. She turned up one day about 18 months ago and decided to add herself to our little flock. Marched up and down until we let her in!
Meet Moon, our mystery girl who waltzed into our lives about 18 months ago! With her big personality and even bigger physique, she quickly earned her place in our feathered family, strutting right up to us until we welcomed her in. Though we’re unsure of her age—she’s likely older than our two-year-old hens—her shiny black feathers and hints of golden ginger around her head make her truly unique. Moon's slightly tufty legs and feet add to her charm, and she surprises us with small, dark brown, often speckled eggs. We’ve speculated about her breed, but her origins remain a delightful mystery. One thing’s for sure: she’s part of the girl gang for life, and we wouldn’t have it any other way! ❤️
My last remaining girl enjoyed her sun time ☀️ chicken loaf
In the enchanting world of chicken-keeping, losing beloved feathered friends can be heart-wrenching. Recently, I faced the sorrow of saying goodbye to two of my favorite hens, leaving behind my last remaining girl, who was once the timid target of bullying. To my surprise, she has blossomed in her newfound solitude, soaking up the sun and savoring her retirement from egg-laying at three years old. Each day, I join her for some quality sunshine and health checks, ensuring she’s entertained and content. As I prepare to welcome three new girls in a couple of months, I lovingly remember my past hens, who supported me through my GCSEs and college. They now rest peacefully, adorned with flowers and their feathers cherished above my bed.
Runt w/ Limp
Meet our feathered friend, the little runt with a limp! This season, I decided to expand my flock, bringing home 30 assorted breed chicks. Among them was this petite chick, who, according to the seller, is the offspring of a single Brahma. While her sisters are growing like weeds, she seems to be lagging behind in both size and confidence. After moving her to a cozy container with another smaller chick to avoid being trampled, I noticed her limp. I’m unsure if it’s a simple injury needing a splint or a sign of nutritional issues. My wife thinks she may have always had a wobbly gait. Any advice or insights on how to help her thrive would be much appreciated!
Wheaten Ameraucanas
Meet the charming Wheaten Ameraucanas from my flock—my feathered friends who never fail to capture my heart! I have a deep appreciation for this breed, especially the wheaten variety, which has faced challenges with nearly white egg colors. For the past five years, I’ve been on a mission to breed toward producing those coveted blue eggs. It’s been an egg-citing journey filled with love, laughter, and the occasional chicken chaos! I’m also curious about the Ermine variant—does anyone else have experience with it? I’m located in Central Texas and would love to hear your thoughts and tips. Let’s share our cluck-tastic stories and create a community of chicken enthusiasts who understand the quirks of these delightful birds!
We got these gals for 75cents at farm supply store no idea on breed any ideas?
Meet our cluck-tastic new additions! We snagged these feathered friends for just 75 cents at the farm supply store, and while we’re over the moon about the bargain, we’re left scratching our heads about their breed. Do you have any egg-citing guesses or expert insights to share? Chickens come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities, and identifying their breed can feel like a game of fowl hide-and-seek. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken whisperer or just starting your poultry journey, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Join us in unraveling the mystery of these quirky gals and let’s bond over our shared love (and maybe a little apprehension) for our feathered companions. Share your wisdom in the comments!
Mohawk?
Ah, the mysterious Mohawk chicken! It's a real head-scratcher, isn't it? This feathered friend seems to be strutting around with a hairstyle that could rival even the trendiest of humans. You're guessing it's a hen, but with all the quirks these birds can have, anything is possible! It sounds like your little chick came from a bin labeled RIR (Rhode Island Red), which adds another layer of confusion. Chickens can sometimes throw us for a loop, especially when they don’t fit the expected mold. If you’re feeling a bit lost in this feathered puzzle, you’re not alone! Let's dive into the delightful world of the Mohawk breed together and see if we can crack this cluck-tastic case!
Need helping identifying this chicken breed..6 weeks old and seems to be very mean already….
Are you in a cluck-tastrophe trying to identify a feisty 6-week-old chicken? You’re not alone! The world of chicken breeds can feel like a feathered mystery, especially when your little one is already showing a sassy attitude. From the majestic Cochin to the spirited Rhode Island Red, each breed has its own quirks and personality traits that can surprise even the most seasoned chicken aficionados. If you’re scratching your head over whether your chick is just a little misunderstood or destined for the drama of the coop, you’ve come to the right place! Join the conversation and let’s unravel the mystery of this mean little bird together. Share your thoughts and let’s get to the bottom of this fowl situation!
I have no clue what he is… but his name is Fire
Meet Fire, the enigmatic chick that sparked curiosity from day one! Hatched from one of our own eggs, this little feathered fellow quickly lived up to his fiery name, showcasing a personality as vibrant as his moniker suggests. With a dad who's an Easter Egger (EE) and a mom whose lineage remains a delightful mystery, Fire embodies the whimsical unpredictability of backyard chickens. His unique traits have us all guessing about his breed, and we can't help but wonder what blends of fowl magic contributed to his charming appearance. If you have any insights or guesses about Fire's heritage, we’d love to hear from you! Join the fun and help us unravel the mystery behind this cluck-tastic character!
What advice would you give me for choosing between chicken breeds?
Choosing the right chicken breeds is an egg-citing adventure, especially for a novice chicken enthusiast like you! Since you’re planning to build a coop and run that can accommodate the infamous “chicken math,” you have a fantastic foundation for your feathered friends. Brahmas and Faverolles are both excellent choices—Brahmas are gentle giants, while Faverolles are known for their sweet dispositions. If you’re considering a mix, think about combining calm breeds like Orpingtons or Sussex, which are friendly and easygoing. Since you prefer breeds that mind their business, these options will likely fit the bill. Remember, while productivity is a fun bonus, the joy of companionship is what truly makes chickens cluck-tastic pets. Happy researching, little chicken gremlin! 🐔✨
It’s a sad day and a happy day on the homestead
Today brings a bittersweet blend of emotions on the homestead. We bid farewell to our beloved wolfhound, Bertram Wilberforce Wooster, who passed peacefully in the night. His gentle spirit will be deeply missed. Yet, as if nature herself wanted to remind us of the cycle of life, our broody hen debuted a delightful surprise this morning—eight adorable chicks! Mom, our lovely black Australorp, has kept them hidden, but Dad remains a mystery after hopping over the fence one day. However, not all is well, as a ninth chick struggles to find its footing. While it managed to drink water, it’s not as lively as its siblings. Any advice on nurturing this little one would be greatly appreciated!
Saw this fluffy fella at the fair last week. Any clue what breed he is?
Last week at the fair, I stumbled upon this fluffy fella that instantly stole my heart! With feathers that looked like they were spun from clouds, he had charm written all over him. Now, I’m on a quest to uncover the breed of this adorable creature. Is he a Silkie, with those delightful, soft feathers that make you want to snuggle? Or perhaps a Cochin, known for their round bodies and sweet disposition? Identifying chicken breeds can sometimes feel like a game of fowl detective work, but it’s all part of the fun in our quirky chicken-loving community. So, if you have any clues or insights about this fluffy wonder, let’s put our heads together and figure it out! 🐔✨
Can anyone help me identify these two roosters?
Are you ready for a cluck-tastic challenge? Our fellow chicken enthusiast, /u/Forsaken_Crow5684, needs your help! They’re on a quest to identify two roosters that have strutted into their lives, but the breeds are proving to be a bit of a puzzle. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry pro or just someone who giggles at the antics of our feathered friends, your insights could make all the difference. Roosters come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and each breed has its own unique charm. So, let’s band together and put our chicken knowledge to the test! Dive into the comments and share your thoughts—who knows, you might just help solve this fowl mystery!