chickens
chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 2945 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.
Making A Homemade Incubators-20+ Ideas For Hatching Eggs
Have you ever found yourself in a cluck-tastrophe when your hens decide to take a break from brooding? Fear not! A homemade incubator is your ticket to a mini hatchery, allowing you to hatch eggs at your convenience. I learned this firsthand when my feathered friends were too busy pecking around to sit on their precious eggs. With a little creativity and some everyday materials, you can create your own egg-citing incubator that ensures those eggs don’t go to waste. In this guide, we’ll explore over 20 ingenious ideas for building your very own incubator. Whether you're a seasoned chicken whisperer or just dipping your toes into the world of hatching, these DIY solutions will have you clucking with joy in no time!
23 Duck House Plans With Tutorials That You Can Build In A Weekend
Building a cozy duck house for your feathered friends is a delightful weekend project that’s more accessible than you might think! With just a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of effort, you can create a safe and comfortable haven for your ducks. This guide presents 23 duck house plans, each complete with tutorials that will have you quacking with joy as you construct the perfect abode. By ensuring your ducks have shelter, fresh food, clean drinking water, and protection from pesky predators, you’ll set the stage for their happiness. So grab your tools, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into these egg-citing designs that will transform your weekend into a rewarding adventure in duck housing!
Is this frizzle feathers?
Is this frizzle feathers? Welcome to the delightful world of chicken enthusiasts! Our friend Blissie_peach_farts recently welcomed a fluffy little chick named Pewter, who has quickly transformed from a dot of fluff into a charming bundle of flippy feathers. Pewter's mom is a frizzle bantam Cochin, and dad is a Silkie, which explains the unique feathering. While Pew's siblings are growing bigger with more conventional feathers, Pewter's quirky look is capturing hearts. It's a wonderful reminder of the joy and surprises that come with raising our feathered friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just enjoy the whimsy of these creatures, we can all agree—chickens are egg-citing and endlessly lovable! Join the conversation and share your thoughts!
Another chicken foot. Injury, leg mites, something else?
Oh no, another chicken foot conundrum! Our feathered friend is facing a mystery that has many of us scratching our heads—could it be an injury, pesky leg mites, or something else entirely? If you’ve ever dealt with a similar situation, you know how concerning it can be. Chickens, with their quirky antics and charming personalities, can also bring a fair share of worries to their caretakers. We’re calling on our wonderful community of chicken enthusiasts to lend a hand! Share your insights, experiences, and any tried-and-true treatments to help diagnose what’s going on. Let’s come together to ensure our beloved chickens stay happy and healthy. Click the link to join the discussion and share your tips!
Chicken poop and pine shavings for compost?
Ah, the age-old question of chicken poop and pine shavings in the composting realm! As you till your winter garden in preparation for the spring bloom, you're tapping into a fantastic resource. Chicken droppings, mixed with the fluffy goodness of pine shavings, can be a cluck-tastic addition to your compost pile. However, patience is key! While chicken poop is rich in nitrogen, it does harbor pathogens that need some time to break down. To safely incorporate it into your compost, consider letting it age for at least six months before using it in your garden. This way, you’ll ensure a healthy, nutrient-packed compost for your plants while keeping those feathered friends happy and your garden thriving. Happy composting!
Anyone else help their chickens dig for worms?
Have you ever found yourself on a worm-hunting adventure alongside your feathered friends? 🐔🤗 If you have, you’re not alone! Our community member, u/JJ3601, poses a delightful question that strikes a chord with chicken enthusiasts everywhere. Digging for worms can feel like an exciting treasure hunt—one where the treasures are wriggly, slimy, and utterly irresistible to our beloved chickens. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a little chicken about getting your hands dirty, this shared experience highlights the quirky bond we form with our flocks. So, grab your gardening gloves and join the conversation about the joys and challenges of helping our chickens dig for those wriggly delights. Let’s dig in and share our worm-hunting tales! 🐛✨
Another bunk rooster
Introducing a new rooster can feel like a feathered gamble, and it sounds like you've drawn the short straw! Your sweet boy may be a doting partner to your hens, but his aggressive antics toward you are anything but charming. Getting attacked by a rooster—especially one who seems to have it out for your head—can be downright alarming. And let's not even get started on his early morning crowing that wakes the whole neighborhood! The struggle is real, but fear not—there may be hope for a better relationship. With a bit of patience and understanding, you can work on winning this feisty fowl over. Or, if all else fails, it might be time to consider whether this rooster is destined for the chicken pot pie!
Is this frizzle feathers?
Is this frizzle feathers? Welcome to the delightful world of chicken enthusiasts! Our friend Blissie_peach_farts recently welcomed a charming little chick named Pewter, who has gone from a fluffy dot to sporting some intriguing flippy feathers. Pewter's lineage includes a frizzle bantam Cochin mom and a Silkie dad, which explains the unique feather style. Interestingly, Pew’s siblings are a bit larger and don't share the same fabulous feather flair. Whether you're a seasoned chicken wrangler or just starting your feathered adventure, it’s hard not to fall in love with these quirky creatures. Join the conversation to share your thoughts on Pewter's fabulous look and celebrate the cuteness of chickens together!
Help? I have been adopted by a stray chicken.
Oh, the cluck-tastic adventure of being adopted by a stray chicken! It sounds like you’ve found yourself in quite the feathered predicament with your new friend, affectionately dubbed Window Chicken. First off, let’s embrace the humor and charm of this unexpected relationship! You’re not alone in your quest for chicken wisdom, and we’re here to help. From identifying her breed to figuring out if you’ve got a hen or a rooster on your hands, we’ll tackle each question together. Plus, we’ll explore what to feed her—because sunflower seeds alone won't cut it—and brainstorm budget-friendly shelter options to keep her safe from those mischievous raccoons and possums. Let’s turn this uneasy alliance into a delightful chicken saga!
Neighbor Issues with chickens.
Oh, the cluck-tastrophe of neighborly chicken antics! You’ve got a delightful situation on your hands, balancing the joys of poultry ownership with the pesky challenges of neighbor interactions. With two roosters and 17 hens in your flock, you’re already juggling a feathered family—and now your neighbor’s chickens are adding to the fowl play! It’s understandable to feel frustrated when their chickens are munching on your hard-earned feed and causing a ruckus. You’ve approached them kindly, but it sounds like their commitment to keeping their birds contained is a bit shaky. You're not alone in this chicken conundrum! Let’s brainstorm some egg-citing solutions to keep the peace while ensuring your feathered friends remain safe and sound!
hen seeming overly tired?
Is your hen feeling a bit under the weather? It sounds like your feathered friend might be facing some challenges! With less smooth feathers, sluggishness, and a droopy tail, it’s understandable that you’re worried. Moving can be stressful for chickens, and it may take a toll on some more than others. While she’s still eating and drinking, her lack of movement and consistent signs of heat could indicate she’s not adjusting well to her new environment. It’s crucial to keep a close eye on her behavior and symptoms. If she doesn’t perk up soon, consulting a vet who specializes in poultry could help uncover what's going on. Remember, your concern is valid, and you’re not alone in navigating these clucky conundrums!
Young chicken pecking my eyes
Ah, the delightful antics of young chickens! At just nine weeks old, your feathered friends are likely exploring their surroundings—and you—like curious little explorers. Roosting on your shoulder is adorable, but those pecks at your eyes? Well, that’s a different kind of attention! It sounds like they might be attracted to the shiny, moving parts of your face rather than trying to cause any harm. To gently redirect this behavior, consider providing them with shiny toys or treats that can capture their fascination instead. Alternatively, a cozy lap for them to snuggle into might just keep those beaks at a safe distance. Remember, teaching them can be part of the cluck-tastic adventure!
I am obsessed with her
Happy one-year anniversary to my ridiculously sweet Moody! This little bundle of joy has completely captured my heart. Every day, she patiently sits on our back porch, waiting for me to bring her inside for a cozy cuddle session. It’s the little moments like these that make having a feathered friend so special. Moody’s quirky personality and gentle demeanor always manage to brighten my day, reminding me of the joy and laughter chickens can bring into our lives. I’d love to see your favorite Easter Egger or snuggly chicken! Share a picture in the comments, and let’s celebrate the delightful chaos our feathered friends bring to our homes. Here’s to more cluck-tastic moments and cuddles ahead!
House chicken?
Ever thought about bringing a feathered friend into your home? The idea of a house chicken might sound egg-citing yet a bit wild, but it’s more feasible than you might think! Imagine cozying up with a quirky companion that clucks its way into your heart—just like I did when I met someone who sparked this delightful notion! Chickens can be surprisingly adaptable, offering both companionship and a dash of whimsy to your day-to-day life. However, before you dive into this cluck-tastic adventure, let’s explore the ins and outs of keeping a house chicken. From space considerations to their quirky personalities, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make this fowl play a success! Ready to take the plunge? Let’s get started!
Chicken: American Style
Get ready to cluck your way through the colorful world of North American chicken breeds! In this delightful installment of our breed series, Jeannette Beranger takes us on a feathered adventure, showcasing the diverse sizes, shapes, and personalities that make chickens one of our most beloved domestic species. With stunning photos courtesy of the Livestock Conservancy, you’ll discover everything from the stately Rhode Island Red to the charming Silkie, each breed brimming with its own quirks and characteristics. Whether you're a seasoned chicken whisperer or just curious about these egg-citing creatures, this guide will help you navigate the fabulous variety that North America has to offer. So, let’s dive in and celebrate our feathered friends!
Gardening with Chickens
Welcome to the whimsical world of Gardening with Chickens! Join Elizabeth Mack as she shares her delightful journey of integrating feathered friends into her gardening adventures. When she moved to her small hobby farm, her vision was clear: a vibrant garden and a flock of clucking companions. With a mix of humor and practical tips, Elizabeth explores the joys and challenges of nurturing both plants and chickens. Discover how to keep your birds happy and your garden thriving, all while embracing the charming chaos that comes with this unique partnership. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide is sure to inspire laughter and a love for both gardening and your feathered pals. Let the fun begin!
Getting a Handle on Hand Tools
Ready to embark on your chicken coop adventure? In "Getting a Handle on Hand Tools," Frank Hyman offers a delightful dive into the world of hand tools, essential for building your own coop and chicken yard. With his whimsical yet practical approach, Frank demystifies the tools you’ll need, ensuring you feel confident as you tackle this egg-citing project. Accompanied by his own photos, he shares insights that blend humor with hands-on knowledge, making the journey both enjoyable and informative. Plus, don’t miss his other tool and fencing-focused articles, like "Get the Most from Your Posts" and "Great Gates for the Girls." Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a nervous newbie, this guide is your ticket to coop-building success and feathered friend happiness!
Heritage Breeds Featured on U.S. Postage Stamps
Get ready to cluck with excitement! The U.S. Postal Service is shining a delightful spotlight on heritage livestock breeds with a new series of postage stamps that celebrate these rare and charming critters. Once the pride of dedicated farmers, these feathered and furry friends are now getting their well-deserved moment in the sun—on stamps! Featuring ten unique species, these stamps not only showcase the beauty and diversity of heritage breeds but also help raise awareness about their importance in agriculture. So, whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just a curious chicken enthusiast, these stamps are a cluck-tastic way to appreciate the irreplaceable role these animals play in our farming heritage. Get ready to collect and celebrate!
How to Move with Your Chickens
Moving with your feathered friends can feel like a cluck-tastrophe waiting to happen, but fear not! Liz Fulghum has some egg-citing tips to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your chickens. Last year, while our new home was taking shape, we were busy crafting the perfect coop and run to keep our chickens happy and comfortable. After all, a change of scenery is no walk in the park (or peck in the yard) for our poultry pals. Whether you're relocating across town or just a few yards away, Liz’s advice will help you navigate the ups and downs of moving day with a sense of humor and confidence, making the process a little less daunting for everyone involved. Let’s get clucking!
Great Pyrenees, Chicken Guard Dog
Are you tired of poultry predators wreaking havoc on your feathered friends? Enter the Great Pyrenees, a majestic breed known for its gentle demeanor and fierce protective instincts. These fluffy guardians excel at keeping your chickens safe from lurking dangers, all while adding a touch of charm to your homestead. In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of raising and training Great Pyrenees dogs to become the ultimate chicken guardians. From understanding their natural instincts to implementing effective training techniques, you’ll learn how to foster a harmonious relationship between your canine companion and your poultry. Get ready to transform your Great Pyrenees into a cluck-tastic protector of your flock, ensuring peace of mind for both you and your beloved birds!
Water Glassing Quail Eggs
Water glassing quail eggs is a cluck-tastic way to preserve the summer's bountiful egg harvest, ensuring you can enjoy these little treasures throughout the winter months. As many domestic poultry tend to lay fewer eggs when the colder, darker days of late fall and winter set in, this age-old technique offers a practical solution for those who want to keep their feathered friends' contributions year-round. By immersing eggs in a solution of water glass, you can maintain their freshness and flavor, making it a fun and resourceful method for both seasoned farmers and backyard enthusiasts alike. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of water glassing quail eggs, so you can keep your pantry stocked and your culinary adventures egg-citing all winter long!
Turkey and Goose Jerky Recipes
Get ready to take your snacking game to the next level with homemade turkey and goose jerky! These delightful treats are not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor and nutrition, making them perfect for on-the-go munching or a savory meal addition. In this post, we’ll dive into scrumptious recipes straight from "Jerky: The Complete Guide to Making It" by Mary T. Bell. Whether you're an experienced jerky maker or just starting your culinary adventure, these fowl-inspired recipes are sure to tickle your taste buds and spark your creativity in the kitchen. So, grab your feathered friends (or just a great cut of meat) and let’s get jerky-ing! Your taste buds will thank you.
Diagnosing Illness in your Flock
Diagnosing illness in your flock is crucial for ensuring your feathered friends stay healthy and you remain calm amidst the clucking chaos. Chickens are notorious for their talent in hiding signs of sickness, often to avoid becoming the target of pecking order antics. Therefore, spotting even the slightest hint of illness early is key to preventing more significant issues down the road. In this post, we’ll dive into the egg-citing world of chicken health, equipping you with the tools to recognize symptoms and take action before it’s too late. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or a casual chicken keeper, understanding how to monitor your flock’s well-being is essential for fostering a happy, healthy coop. So, let’s get cluckin’ on those diagnostic skills!
Cayuga Duck: Emerald Beauty of New York
Dive into the captivating world of the Cayuga duck, a true gem hailing from New York! In this delightful post, Jeannette Beranger unravels the rich history behind this enchanting breed, known for its stunning emerald green feathers that shimmer in the sunlight. With origins shrouded in mystery, the Cayuga duck has charmed many with its unique personality and culinary potential. Jeannette not only shares the fascinating backstory of these feathered beauties but also offers a mouthwatering duck confit recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned duck enthusiast or simply curious about these captivating creatures, this post is a cluck-tastic exploration of the Cayuga duck that invites you to savor both its beauty and flavor.