chickens
chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 2941 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on chickens 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 chickens, 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.
Problems from hen mounting hens
## Decoding the Hen Hierarchy: Mounting Mania & Feather Fallout Is your flock experiencing some *fowl play*? /u/sweetteafrances’s recent post highlights a common, and slightly chaotic, chicken conundrum: excessive mounting. Pictures depicting feather damage, an aggressive instigator, and even a saddled hen illustrate the escalating situation. Mounting behavior isn't always about reproduction; it can signal dominance and stress within the flock. Many readers are likely facing similar challenges—how to curb the mounting, address potential broodiness, and navigate the surprisingly complicated world of chicken saddles. We’ll tackle these questions head-on, offering practical advice to restore peace to your coop. For a deeper dive into related issues, check out “My vocal girl Hilda had a big problem with the fact that the nesting box was already taken.
Little birb
## Welcome to Little Birb! Ever felt that delightful mix of fascination and, let's be honest, a little bit of apprehension around chickens? You're not alone! At Little Birb, we embrace the quirky, sometimes chaotic, but always *cluck-tastic* world of these feathered friends. We're here to share knowledge, humor, and a healthy dose of relatable "chickening out" moments. Whether you're a seasoned poultry pro or just starting to appreciate the egg-citing possibilities of backyard birds, we’ve got something for you. Join our community as we explore everything from coop design to identifying those unusual chicken noises – speaking of which, you might find some helpful insights in our related article, "Why is my chicken making this weird sound??". Let's navigate the fowl play together!
Has anyone ever seen something eat just the inside of a hen?
A truly unsettling discovery has left one of our community members baffled: a hen found seemingly emptied from the inside. User /u/Weriel_7637 from Riverside County, California, reported finding a deceased hen with a completely hollowed-out rear end, leaving the skin, bones, and feathers intact. While coyotes and possums were initially ruled out, the question remains: could this be the work of other chickens? This unusual occurrence sparks a fascinating discussion about predator behavior and potential internal conflicts within a flock. For those encountering other avian anomalies, you might find our article "My concave chicken comb" insightful, exploring another unusual physical trait in chickens. We’ll continue to investigate this perplexing case and share updates as they become available.
Why is my chicken making this weird sound??
## Decoding the Cluck: Why is Your Chicken Making That Weird Sound? Hearing a change in your chicken’s vocalizations can be seriously unsettling – we get it! It's cluck-tastic when your feathered friend is happy, but a lower, raspier sound definitely warrants a closer look. You've already done a great job checking the basics: food, water, and observing for obvious signs of illness. The fact that she's still clingy and purring suggests she *feels* okay, which is encouraging. However, that altered sound could indicate a developing issue. While it's tempting to chicken out of a vet visit, a change in vocalization can sometimes be an early warning sign. If the sound persists or worsens, a quick check-in with your avian veterinarian is a good idea.
I don’t remember planting these
## Mystery Sprouts & Unexpected Guests: What's Happening in the Coop? A truly *cluck-tastic* conundrum has landed in our inbox! /u/Lillrw is baffled – they don’t recall planting a certain crop, yet it's sprung up unexpectedly. We’ve all been there, right? That delightful surprise (or mild panic) when nature throws a curveball. This situation sparks a larger conversation about the quirky unpredictability of chicken keeping, and the sometimes-surreal experiences that come with sharing your space with feathered friends. It seems our community is experiencing a surge of unexpected chicken encounters lately! For a peek at how other keepers are handling the heatwave and its impact on their flocks, check out our recent live coop check: “🔥 106°F TODAY! Did The Chickens Survive? 🐔🥵”.
Do I still need to keep/lock chicks in the coop for 3 days if the run is smaller?
So, you’ve got some adorable 5-week-old chicks – two White Leghorns and two Jubilee Orpingtons! Transitioning them to their new run, even a temporary setup like your Producer's Pride coop, can be a bit of a "cluck-tastic" puzzle. You're wisely wondering if a 3-day coop lock-in is still necessary with a smaller run space. Generally, yes, initially guiding them to the coop as their safe haven is a good idea. It helps them instinctively understand where to roost and avoid potential nighttime predators. While they *might* figure it out on their own, a little "training" goes a long way! If you're facing aggression among your flock, you might find some helpful insights in our article, "Problems from hen mounting hens.
My vocal girl Hilda had a big problem with the fact that the nesting box was already taken
Hilda, a vocal hen with opinions—and a penchant for drama—recently presented a cluck-tastic conundrum: a full nesting box! /u/anet_12468 shared this entertaining saga, highlighting the surprisingly complex social dynamics of our feathered friends. It’s a familiar struggle for many chicken keepers – navigating those territorial disputes can be a real game of fowl play! This situation sparked a lively discussion, proving that even the most adorable chickens can have their moments. If you've encountered similar nesting box squabbles, you might find some helpful perspectives in our recent piece, "Little birb," which explores early chick behavior. Ultimately, understanding these behaviors is key to a harmonious coop and happy hens.
A more humane chicken culling method?
Dealing with the loss of a beloved chicken is never easy, especially when disease like Marek’s forces difficult decisions. /u/The_Tiddler’s recent post explores a compassionate alternative to traditional culling methods, sparking a fascinating discussion around humane end-of-life care for our feathered friends. The idea – utilizing a modified, contained environment with nitrogen gas – demonstrates a deep commitment to minimizing stress for the birds. While potentially costly and requiring careful planning for safety, this approach reflects a growing desire for more gentle options within the chicken-keeping community. We understand that these situations are tough, as highlighted in our article, "We all hate the Game..." offering support and perspective on navigating challenging realities.
Warning graphic: is this screw worm or fly strike?
**Urgent Alert: Screw Worm or Fly Strike? A Critical Threat to Your Flock** A concerning situation has been reported by /u/_DemonxD: a chicken exhibiting signs potentially indicative of screw worm infestation or fly strike—a devastating and rapidly progressing condition. Losing a hen to the same issue just two weeks prior underscores the severity. The submitter is currently working to mitigate the problem, but euthanasia may unfortunately be necessary. Daily checks are crucial for early detection. This situation highlights the importance of vigilance in backyard chicken care. For deeper insights into flock dynamics that can contribute to vulnerability, see our article "Problems from hen mounting hens," which details aggression-related injuries. Prompt action is vital to protect your feathered friends from these serious threats.
Vibing with big Henry
## Vibing with Big Henry: A Brahma's Big Personality! Meet Henry, a 10-week-old Brahma with a presence that’s, well, *cluck-tastic*! Submitted by /u/alphaky1e, this post dives into the joys (and perhaps minor challenges) of sharing space with a rapidly growing, undeniably large Brahma chicken. Brahmas are known for their gentle nature and impressive size, and it sounds like Henry is living up to both! We’re loving the glimpse into his world. This post sparks some fascinating questions about raising large breeds, and if you’re concerned about keeping your flock comfortable during rising temperatures, you might find our article, "Chicken and high temperatures," particularly helpful. Join the conversation and share your own experiences with big birds – we’re all in this feathered adventure together!
What is my chicken doing ?
## Decoding Chicken Chatter: What's That Sound? So, you’ve noticed a peculiar noise coming from your feathered friend during egg collection? Don't chick-en out – it's likely a sign something's up! Identifying the sound is key to understanding what your chicken might be communicating. Is it a distressed squawk, a frantic clucking, or something else entirely? Several factors could be at play, from minor discomfort to a more serious health concern. We’ve compiled a guide to help you troubleshoot, but remember, observation is crucial. It’s always best to monitor your chicken closely for other signs of illness. For more insights into chicken behavior, check out our article, "She keeps me company on my lunchbreak," which explores the nuances of chicken interactions.
One Pullet left
Losing a flock is absolutely heartbreaking, and we’re sending all our cluck-tastic sympathy to /u/GirlMamaM2 and her family. It’s a devastating experience, especially for kids who’ve just bonded with their feathered friends. Thankfully, one sweet 6-week-old pullet survived—a silver lining amidst the sadness. Now, the big question: how to integrate her into a new flock? While immediate introductions aren't ideal, supervised visits in a larger run are a great first step. You’re doing all the right things with the reinforced coop and expanded run – extra chicken wire is a brilliant idea! It’s a tough lesson, but vigilance with those pups is key.
Update: Gasping rooster
## Update: Gasping Rooster – A Cluck-tastic Recovery! A collective sigh of relief from the chicken community! User /u/Queenie110 recently shared an update on their rooster’s upper respiratory distress, and thankfully, it appears the situation is improving. The vet diagnosed gape worm and administered a dewormer shot, with a follow-up scheduled in two weeks. We’re so glad it wasn't anything more serious! Dealing with ailing feathered friends can be stressful, and we appreciate users like /u/Queenie110 sharing their experiences. For more insights into rooster behavior and health, check out /u/alphaky1e's charming piece, “Big Henry is chill like that.” Stay tuned for more cluck-tastic updates and community-shared stories!
She keeps me company on my lunchbreak.
## A Lunchtime Pal: The Joys of Chicken Companionship Sometimes, the best company comes in feathered form! /u/Frazzledragon shared a delightful sentiment: "She keeps me company on my lunchbreak." It’s a simple statement, yet it speaks volumes about the unexpected joy chickens can bring. Beyond egg production and backyard charm, these birds offer a unique, calming presence. Whether it’s a gentle clucking or a curious peek, a lunchtime visit from a chicken can be a surprisingly restorative experience. If you're curious about ensuring your feathered friends remain healthy and happy, check out our article, "Update: Gasping rooster," for insights into common respiratory issues and how to address them. We're thrilled to see our community embracing the quirky companionship chickens offer!
I moved to an island where chickens run wild
Welcome to a cluck-tastic new chapter! I've traded city life for the island paradise of Cayman Brac, where the local wildlife includes a thriving population of free-range chickens – think squirrels, but feathered! Currently, I'm embracing the "chickening out" phase of proper chicken keeping, forgoing a coop and feed for now, but supplementing with scraps of rice, corn, and veggie bits. My feathered friend, May, a little black chick from the beginning, is a standout – the only one brave enough to approach for a hand-fed treat. While the rest still scatter at sudden movements, patience and a scattering of food are slowly building trust. It’s been a whirlwind five months of observing Rodney the rooster and his ever-growing brood!
Big Henry is chill like that
## Big Henry is Chill Like That: A Chicken Zen Master Big Henry, a Rhode Island Red rooster, is proving that chickens can be surprisingly… relaxed. Submitted by /u/alphaky1e, this delightful observation showcases a rooster defying expectations with his laid-back demeanor. It’s cluck-tastic to see a bird embracing tranquility! This post joins a growing collection of avian adventures here, alongside /u/alphaky1e’s earlier piece, "In n out with my chicks," which explores the joys (and occasional chaos) of raising poultry. If you’ve ever wondered about the emotional well-being of your feathered friends, check out our deep dive into “Do Ducks Get Stressed? Signs, Causes, & How to Help” for a broader perspective on poultry contentment.
Is he sweet or is he plotting? 🤣
## Is He Sweet or Is He Plotting? 🤣 Roosters. They're a delightful mix of majestic and… potentially menacing. One brave chicken keeper, /u/Hphzrdlylvng, recently shared a hilariously relatable experience: a normally “mean as hell” rooster exhibiting surprisingly sweet behavior. After realizing a more respectful approach was needed (a lesson learned through diligent research!), snuggle therapy has seemingly worked wonders—though the possibility of elaborate scheming remains! It’s a common quandary for new flock owners, and a testament to the complex personalities of our feathered friends. Perhaps you've encountered a similar situation? For a deeper dive into the mysteries of chicken health, check out our article, "My concave chicken comb. First time seeing one," and explore other curious chicken quirks.
Beautiful loaves
## Meet Our Feathered Stars: Edith & Daffodil! Get ready to be charmed! We’re thrilled to introduce you to two of our delightful residents: Edith, a stunning Sussex hen known for her beautiful loaves (yes, really!), and Daffodil, a vibrant mixed-laying hen bringing a splash of sunshine to the coop. These feathered friends represent the quirky joy – and occasional chaos – of chicken keeping. Edith’s impressive laying prowess is truly cluck-tastic, while Daffodil’s colorful personality adds extra zest to our flock. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just starting to explore the egg-citing world of poultry, we hope you enjoy learning about these lovely ladies. Curious about other unusual chicken behaviors? Check out our article, "Why is my chicken making this weird sound??
What types of roos are they?
## Decoding the Roosters of Rural Mexico: A Cluck-tastic Mystery! Our user /u/TraditionOverall1411 recently encountered some intriguing roosters during a visit to a small ranch in rural Mexico, sparking a delightful question: "What types of roos are they?" Identifying breeds from afar can be tricky, but we're here to help you unravel the mystery of these feathered friends! This post kicks off a discussion around regional chicken varieties and the fascinating diversity you’ll find beyond your standard farmyard flock. Perhaps you’ve experienced a similar loss and are wondering about flock management—as explored in our article, "One Pullet left," which addresses the heartbreaking experience of losing chickens and navigating the path forward.
🔥106°F TODAY! 🐔 Road to 1,000 Subs! Only 558 Left! | Chicken Heat Check LIVE
🔥 **Heat Check Alert!** 🔥 It’s a cluck-tastic 106°F today, and our feathered friends at Peckington Square are feeling the sizzle! Join us LIVE for a Chicken Heat Check – we're keeping a watchful eye on our flock and sharing tips to keep them cool and comfortable. We're also on a mission: only 558 subscribers left to reach 1,000! Help us celebrate this egg-citing milestone by subscribing and joining the Peckington Square community. Want a deeper dive into our 24/7 livestream? Check out "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam" for a constant view of chicken life. Let’s beat the heat and celebrate together!
Its chicken time.
## It's Chicken Time! (And Maybe a Little Fowl Play?) Get ready for a cluck-tastic dive into the wonderfully weird world of chickens! Whether you're a seasoned poultry pro or just starting to appreciate (or cautiously observe) these feathered friends, you've come to the right place. We're here to share knowledge, laughter, and maybe a touch of relatable panic – because let’s be honest, sometimes chickens *are* a bit much. Join the conversation as we explore everything from quirky behaviors to essential care tips, all with a playful and approachable tone. Curious about different breeds and their personalities? Check out our recent article, "Beautiful loaves," for a charming look at Edith the Sussex and daffodil the mixed laying hen. Let the egg-citing adventure begin!
My concave chicken comb. First time seeing one
## Decoding the Concave Comb: A Curious Chicken Query Wow, a concave chicken comb – a first for us too! We've been cluck-tastically observing our feathered friends, and this unique comb shape certainly catches the eye. It’s a fascinating variation, and we're eager to hear from others who might have encountered this phenomenon. Has anyone else noticed their chickens sporting this distinctive, inward curve? It’s always interesting to see how much variation exists within a flock. While we don't have all the answers, exploring these quirks can be egg-citing! For those navigating more difficult decisions regarding their flock, you might find some helpful perspectives in our recent article, "I culled a chicken for the first time I feel awful." Let’s share experiences and learn together!
Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam
Welcome to Peckington Square Chicken City, your 24/7 window into a world of cluck-tastic chaos! Join us live as we observe our feathered friends strutting, pecking, and generally ruling the roost. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just curious about these quirky creatures, our livestream offers a delightful and surprisingly engaging experience. Prepare for spontaneous antics, egg-cellent moments, and maybe even a little fowl play. We've built a vibrant community around our chickens, and we invite you to join the conversation! For a deeper dive into ensuring our flock stays comfortable, check out our recent article, "🔥 110°F TODAY! Chicken Heat Check LIVE | Are the Chicks Staying Cool? 🐔☀️." So, grab a seat and get ready for a cluckin’ good time!
🔥110°F TODAY! | ROAD TO 1,000 SUBS! 🐔 LIVE Chicken Heat Check 🌵
It's a scorcher out there – a sizzling 110°F today! 🔥 We're bringing you a LIVE "Chicken Heat Check" from Peckington Square to ensure our feathered friends are staying cool and cluck-tastic. Join us as we monitor the flock and share tips for keeping your chickens comfortable during extreme heat. We're on the road to 1,000 subscribers, and your support helps us bring you constant updates from Chicken City! Want a deeper dive into our 24/7 livestream? Check out our article, "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam," for a constant view of the action. Tune in now – let’s make sure these chickens don’t end up chickening out! 🐔☀️