Alektorophobia/chicken eggs

chicken eggs

chicken eggs on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 725 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on chicken eggs 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 eggs, 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.

Green eggs?
chickens

Green eggs?

Green eggs? Oh, you’ve stumbled into a cluck-tastic mystery! As a newish chicken keeper with two years under your belt, it sounds like you’ve already embarked on a feathered adventure. Congratulations on your broody hen hatching those adorable chicks last fall! Now, the plot thickens with your little green egg-layer—what a peculiar surprise! Typically, when it comes to egg color, a mix of a blue layer and a brown layer is expected for those vibrant green beauties. But here you are with a Jersey Giant mama and a Silkie Orpington papa, and voilà—a small green egg from a pint-sized chicken! Has anyone else had this quirky experience? Let’s unravel this egg-citing enigma together!

What is this egg?
chickens

What is this egg?

Have you ever stumbled upon an egg in the laying box and thought, “What in the cluck is this?” Well, you're not alone! A curious Redditor, u/Professor-Gator, recently found an intriguing egg alongside a normal-sized one and is wondering what it could be. With all chickens grown, plus one adventurous turkey in the mix, the mystery deepens. Is it an egg from a feathered friend or something more exotic? Join the conversation as we explore the possibilities of this peculiar find. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry keeper or just a curious onlooker, let’s crack this case wide open and see what we can discover about this egg-citing mystery! Check out the link for more cluck-tastic insights and community thoughts!

Bloody egg from one of my Bantams – any insights?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Bloody egg from one of my Bantams – any insights?

Oh no, a bloody egg from your Bantam! It’s definitely a head-scratcher, but you’re not alone in this quirky chicken adventure. With your flock of four Bantams turning one this spring and two of them laying regularly, it’s great to hear that the rest are doing well. The fact that your hen seems perfectly fine—eating well and displaying normal energy—is a good sign. Bloody eggs can sometimes indicate stress or minor injuries, possibly linked to the roosters' rowdy behavior. Since they seem to favor one of your Bantams, it might be worth observing their interactions more closely. Have any of your fellow chicken enthusiasts experienced something similar? Let’s cluck about it and find some egg-citing solutions together!

Help with feather loss
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Help with feather loss

Feather loss in chickens can be a perplexing puzzle, especially when it seems like your feathered friends are sporting more bare patches than plumes! With 20 chickens in your flock, including a rambunctious rooster who's been displaying some rather questionable behavior, you're right to seek advice. While you've taken commendable steps—treating for mites, cleaning the coop, and even introducing diatomaceous earth—there could be a few reasons behind this feather fiasco. Feather pecking among hens, stress from the rooster's antics, or a delayed molt might all play a part. Let's dive into the possible causes and solutions to help your flock get back to their cluck-tastic selves! Your journey to fluffy glory starts here!

I pulled my chicken out of the nest box…
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

I pulled my chicken out of the nest box…

In a comical twist of fate, I pulled my chicken out of her cozy nest box, only for her to promptly lay an egg on the ground. Talk about bad timing! I thought she was going broody after sitting there for hours, and with the sun heating up, I worried she’d overheat. My intention was to save her from becoming a broody hen, but as luck would have it, I might have interrupted her egg-laying moment. I felt a wave of guilt wash over me—I mean, who knew chickens could be so dramatic? I apologized profusely, hoping she would forgive me for my well-meaning but misguided intervention. Ah, the joys and surprises of chicken keeping! 🤦🏻‍♂️

My 6 YO hen, Dorothy, with insane spurs 🐓
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

My 6 YO hen, Dorothy, with insane spurs 🐓

Meet Dorothy, my quirky 6-year-old hen with spurs that could rival a cowboy's boots! 🐓 She’s a one-of-a-kind lady in our flock, laying a rare egg only about twice a month—definitely not your average egg production! With no roosters around, Dorothy struts her stuff with a unique flair, embodying the whimsical charm of our feathered friends. Her spurs might look a bit intimidating, but trust me, they only add to her delightful personality. I’m curious—are there any other chicken enthusiasts out there with a hen like Dorothy? Let’s cluck about our extraordinary hens and share those quirky stories that make chicken-keeping so egg-citing! Join the conversation and let’s celebrate our fabulous feathered companions!

chickens

Good dual breeds?

Are you on the hunt for the perfect dual-purpose chicken breeds that balance meat production and egg-laying? You’re not alone! A fellow chicken enthusiast is exploring the delightful world of Brahma and Freedom Rangers for their meat birds, but they’re also considering adding some friendly egg layers to the mix. With a limit of just six feathered friends on their property, they’re seeking breeds that grow quickly and don’t require a ton of feed. If you find yourself in a similar cluck-tastrophe or are just curious about the best dual-purpose options, this discussion is a fabulous opportunity to share insights, tips, and perhaps even some egg-citing breed recommendations! Join in and let’s hatch some great ideas together!

Chicken identification please?
chickens

Chicken identification please?

Hey there, feathered friend! It sounds like your cousin's chick crew is quite the eclectic bunch. Identifying chickens can be a delightful puzzle, especially when you’re knee-deep in fluff and cuteness. From your description, those grey darlings might just be Lavender Orpingtons, known for their stunning plumage and sweet demeanor. As for the black beauties, Black Laced Wyandottes are a likely contender, sporting that fabulous lace pattern that makes them truly eye-catching. With seven hens and one rooster laying about 30 eggs a week, you’re certainly in for an egg-citing time! Let’s get to the bottom of this feathered mystery together. Any photos would help, too—because who can resist a good chick pic? 🐔✨

chickens

Small eggs

Having a flock of Rhode Island Red hens is egg-citing, especially when they start laying their first eggs! However, it's not uncommon for newbie layers to produce smaller eggs initially. Your girls are just getting the hang of it, and those petite offerings are a typical part of their learning curve. As they gain confidence and experience, you can expect their egg size to gradually increase. It sounds like your older cinnamon queens are setting the bar high, but rest assured, your Rhode Island Reds will catch up in no time! Since your environment and nutrition seem on point, let those little eggs be a reminder of your hens' journey as they evolve into confident cluckers.

My girls laid some pretty eggs!!
chickens

My girls laid some pretty eggs!!

Get ready for a cluck-tastic surprise! Our feathered friends are at it again, and this time they’ve outdone themselves with a colorful array of eggs that are simply egg-citing. Submitted by the fabulous u/Buckinuoff, this delightful post showcases the beauty and uniqueness of chicken eggs, celebrating the quirky charm that comes with raising chickens. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just a casual observer, there’s something magical about discovering an unexpected treasure in the coop. Join the fun, share your thoughts, and let’s dive into a world where every egg tells a story. Trust us, you won’t want to chickening out of this one! Check out the post and the comments to see the colorful egg-citement unfold!

The many colors of chicken eggs! My basket looks like spring again.
chickens

The many colors of chicken eggs! My basket looks like spring again.

Spring has sprung in the most delightful way—through a vibrant basket of chicken eggs! Submitted by the fabulous /u/pelidesse, this colorful collection is a true celebration of the many hues that our feathered friends can lay. From soft pastels to deep earth tones, the variety of egg colors is not just visually stunning but also a reflection of the diverse breeds that grace our backyards. Each egg tells a story, adding a little whimsy to our kitchens and reminding us of the joy that comes from raising chickens. So, let’s crack open the mystery behind these egg-citing colors and discover what makes each one unique. Get ready for a cluck-tastic journey into the world of chicken eggs!

New shade from my Mystic Marans!
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

New shade from my Mystic Marans!

Introducing the latest cluck-tastic addition from my Mystic Marans! This little egg-venture began with a medium-sized, light brown egg, but wait—her second egg is a delightful surprise, tiny and dark as midnight! I’m thrilled to showcase the enchanting Midnight Majesty Marans, a charming twist in my chicken journey. It’s fascinating how these feathered friends can produce such a variety of eggs, each one a unique treasure waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of poultry, the Mystic Marans are sure to captivate with their whimsical charm and unexpected surprises. Join me in celebrating this egg-citing moment and let’s cluck about our feathered friends together! [Link] [Comments].

Hen acting weird since Friday.
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Hen acting weird since Friday.

Oh dear, it sounds like Misty is in a bit of a pickle! Since Friday, she’s been acting like a lone wolf—er, chicken—hanging out by herself and laying around while her feathered friends are off gallivanting. The poopy situation on her fluffy butt feathers isn’t doing her any favors either! You’ve already taken the initiative with a soothing Epsom salt bath and provided her with fresh water and food, which is egg-cellent. The mix of runny and solid poop could be a sign of something brewing, and given that she hasn’t laid her usual big eggs, egg binding might be a possibility. It’s always good to be cautious, so keep a close eye on her—our feathered friends can be quite the drama queens!

Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Helping people to take better care of their chickens.

Caring for chickens is a rewarding yet challenging journey, especially when witnessing fellow enthusiasts neglect their feathered friends. Recently, I found myself in a tough spot while visiting a friend’s home in Greece, where their chickens live in less-than-ideal conditions. With muddy coops, overcrowded roosts, and signs of distress among the hens, it was hard to stand by. I’ve taken it upon myself to help improve their situation, from creating cozy nesting boxes to advocating for better living conditions. While I’m not sure how my suggestions will be received by the family, I remain hopeful. Let’s rally together to share encouragement and ideas for helping chickens thrive, because every cluck-tastic life deserves a little extra care!

Absolute unit of an egg my girl laid
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Absolute unit of an egg my girl laid

Prepare to be egg-statically amazed, folks! Our feathered friend, submitted by the delightful /u/pinksunflower99, has laid an absolute unit of an egg! This isn’t just any ordinary egg; it’s a cluck-tastic testament to the wonders of poultry prowess. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or a casual observer of the fowl world, this giant egg is sure to spark curiosity and conversation. Imagine the breakfast possibilities! Join in the fun as we celebrate this egg-citing moment in chicken history. Let’s crack open the comments and share your thoughts—what do you think about this egg-squisite creation? Don’t be shy; let’s cluck about it!

chickens

Favorite US Breeds

Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you're on an egg-citing journey to find the perfect feathered friends for your home in NW Georgia. Many folks share your dream of welcoming friendly, quirky chickens that not only lay plenty of eggs but also get along with other breeds. While breeds like Orpingtons, Wyandottes, and Barred Rocks are excellent choices, each has its own personality and quirks. It’s great that you’re considering free-ranging your chickens, but without a fenced yard, it can be a bit of a cluck-tastrophe waiting to happen! Let’s dive into your questions, share experiences, and figure out how to make your chicken dreams come true—feathers and all!

Soaks, massages, and vent lubrication aren’t passing the bound egg
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Soaks, massages, and vent lubrication aren’t passing the bound egg

It sounds like you're doing everything you can to help your feathered friend through this challenging time! When it comes to addressing bound eggs, it’s essential to explore all avenues to provide relief. Soaks and massages are great starts, but adding yogurt with calcium citrate and crushed vitamin D tablets shows your dedication to her well-being. To further support her, consider offering a nutrient-rich diet that includes leafy greens and plenty of hydration, as well as ensuring she has a stress-free environment. If she’s still struggling, consulting a veterinarian who specializes in poultry can provide tailored advice and potential treatments. Remember, you’re not alone in this—many chicken enthusiasts face similar challenges and can share their experiences!

Hard mass - lower left abdomen
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Hard mass - lower left abdomen

Meet Matilda, our resilient hen who has faced her share of challenges! Last year, she battled water belly, but with a little help, she bounced back and thrived for several months. Recently, though, our feathered friend has become a bit of a couch potato—showing lethargy and a noticeable swelling in her abdomen. Upon closer inspection, we discovered a mysterious hard mass on her lower left side, which feels alarmingly like an egg, but isn’t. This mass has been around for over a week, and while she’s still eating, drinking, and enjoying her time with the flock, we can’t help but worry. We’ve started her on antibiotics just in case, but any insights into what this could be would be egg-cellent!

Hen died
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Hen died

Losing a beloved hen is never easy, especially when she seemed so full of life and personality. Your feathered friend, who laid her first egg and brought joy to your coop, passed away unexpectedly, leaving you with feelings of confusion and guilt. It’s understandable to question if there was something you could have done differently. While her twitching after eating might hint at a neurological issue, it's tough to say for sure without a vet's insight. Additionally, the presence of shrews in your Alaskan backyard adds another layer of concern—could she have ingested something harmful? Your worries are valid, and seeking answers is a step toward healing. Let’s explore these questions together, as we navigate the ups and downs of chicken-keeping.

One of my girls laid this pretty egg today
chickens

One of my girls laid this pretty egg today

Today, one of my lovely feathered friends surprised me with a stunning egg that has me clucking with delight! While I’m not quite sure which of my Barnyard mixed chickens laid this beauty, it’s the lightest-colored egg I’ve ever received from my flock. The delicate speckles add a charming touch, making it feel extra special. In the second picture, you can see how it compares to the eggs I usually gather, and I must say, this one really stands out! If you’ve ever marveled at the surprises your chickens can deliver, you’ll understand the joy of discovering such a unique treasure in the nest. Can’t wait to see what other egg-citing wonders await!

Random blue eggs… Do chickens have a monthly cycle beyond the daily egg?
chickens

Random blue eggs… Do chickens have a monthly cycle beyond the daily egg?

Have you ever found yourself staring at a random blue egg in your nest box, wondering if you’ve stumbled into a chicken version of "Where’s Waldo?" Well, you’re not alone! When I added four colorful chicks to my flock last June, I hoped for a vibrant egg basket by winter. Two Marans are doing their job with dark, speckled eggs, while the olive egger seems to have taken a detour into light brown territory. As for my cream legbar, she’s a bit of a mystery, possibly a mix, but I was thrilled to see some blue eggs pop up unexpectedly. What’s the deal with these sporadic blue treasures? Is there a monthly cycle at play, or are my chickens just keeping me guessing?

What breed is this chick
chickens

What breed is this chick

Curious about your feathered friend’s breed? You’re not alone! Identifying a chicken breed can be a cluck-tastic adventure, especially when it comes to understanding their egg-laying potential. This delightful two-month-old chick is likely to bring joy and maybe a few surprises to your backyard flock. Knowing her breed can help you determine if she’s destined for golden egg production or simply a charming companion. Each breed has its quirks and qualities, making the journey of discovery both fun and informative. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken whisperer or just starting to embrace the world of poultry, let’s dive into the fascinating world of chicken breeds and find out what makes your little one special!

Blažena was bad, she could defecate but only sparse. I assessed that she was eggbound. She wasn't exactly apathetic, so I just gave her a few baths and after about three days she laid her first egg. Now she looks fine. And finally, the period has come when we have a lot of eggs.
chickens

Blažena was bad, she could defecate but only sparse. I assessed that she was eggbound. She wasn't exactly apathetic, so I just gave her a few baths and after about three days she laid her first egg. Now she looks fine. And finally, the period has come when we have a lot of eggs.

Meet Blažena, a quirky hen who initially had us all worried. With her sparse defecation and a look that screamed concern, it became clear that she was eggbound. But fear not—this feathered friend wasn’t entirely apathetic! After a few soothing baths and some tender care, she surprised us all by laying her first egg after just three days. Now, she’s thriving and back to her cluck-tastic self, and the egg-laying season has officially begun! With plenty of eggs rolling in, it’s time to celebrate the joys of chicken-keeping and the delightful surprises our feathered friends bring.

Building A DIY Chicken Nesting Boxes-21 Plans And Ideas
The Poultry Guide

Building A DIY Chicken Nesting Boxes-21 Plans And Ideas

Are you ready to give your feathered friends the perfect place to lay their eggs? Look no further! Our guide, "Building A DIY Chicken Nesting Boxes: 21 Plans and Ideas," is here to cluck-tastically help you create cozy and inviting nesting spots for your hens. While chickens may not be the pickiest egg-layers, having dedicated nesting boxes makes egg collection a breeze for you. With 21 creative and free plans at your fingertips, you can choose a design that suits your style and your flock's needs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual chicken enthusiast, these DIY ideas will have you clucking with joy as your hens settle into their new digs. Let’s get building and make those egg-citing bounties easier to gather!