chickens
chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 3142 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.
Embryos developed at the wrong end 😬
## Embryo Upside-Down? A Cluck-tastic Conundrum! 😬 Oh dear, a real head-scratcher for /u/LostLuminary4254! Discovering embryos developing at the pointy end of the egg—especially when candling on day 4 reveals some seriously tangled blood vessels—is enough to ruffle anyone’s feathers. We've all been there, staring at an egg and wondering what *fowl* play is afoot. While it’s unusual, it *is* possible for these embryos to survive. Should you leave them be, or intervene? That’s the big question. The chance of hatch success is low, but not zero. Consider this a high-stakes game of chicken! It’s a tough call, and often best left to observation. If you’re facing similar challenges with a slower-growing hen, be sure to check out our article, "HELP": I have an approximately
Silkies
## Silkies & Sleuthing: Decoding Those Blue Ears! So, you've got a Silkie with a stellar bloodline – indicated by those vibrant blue earlobes – and need a gender check? We get it! Identifying Silkie genders can be a bit of a cluck-tastic puzzle. Those fluffy bodies often obscure key features. While the earlobes are a fantastic starting point (a clear indicator of good breeding!), further examination is often needed. This query from /u/Successful_Ad3367 highlights a common challenge for Silkie enthusiasts. For a deeper dive into potential color variations, check out our article, "Black Australorp Throwback colors?" to explore the fascinating world of chicken genetics. Let's get sleuthing and help determine if you’ve got a handsome rooster or a lovely hen!
My first broody hen started isolating in the nesting box last night and I tried breaking it with ice today but will have to put her in an elevated crate tomorrow. She was very upset that I tried to show her that her eggs weren't real. She rightfully can't understand and is upset I handed them badly.
Oh dear, a broody hen situation! It sounds like you've encountered a classic chicken conundrum – and a potentially emotionally charged one, at that. Your hen's dedication to her nest is admirable, even if it’s disrupting things. It’s cluck-tastic to hear she trusts you, even after a slightly misguided attempt at demonstrating those training eggs weren't the real deal! We've all been there, haven’t we? Now, tackling this broody behavior requires a gentle, yet firm, approach. While breaking the cycle is necessary, traumatizing your feathered friend isn't the goal. Many keepers find success with either a cold water bath or isolating her in an elevated, well-ventilated crate – similar to a dog crate.
Cat problem NSFW mentions of chicken death
Losing precious hens to predators is a cluck-tastic nightmare, and we hear you! /u/Plastic_Slide8070 is facing a frustrating cat problem despite a fully fenced coop, resulting in the heartbreaking loss of three chickens over the past year. While rocks and repairs have addressed some digging points, the feline infiltration continues. This is a common struggle, and it's understandably disheartening. Dealing with persistent predators requires vigilance and creative solutions. We'll explore strategies to fortify your coop and protect your feathered friends – because nobody wants to experience further fowl play. For those just starting their chicken journey, our article "New brooder who dis" offers valuable insights into initial coop setup and predator prevention.
Please help what's wrong with my chicken?
## My Chicken's Wry Neck Troubles: What's Going On? Oh, the cluck-tastic frustration! It's disheartening when your feathered friend isn't feeling their best, especially when a condition like wry neck returns. /u/Fun-Description5723 is experiencing this exact issue—their chicken initially responded well to vitamin E and selenium shots, but the twisting neck has reappeared. While heat *can* be a contributing factor, and a shaded coop is a great start, recurring wry neck suggests a deeper investigation might be needed. Could it be a persistent deficiency, an underlying infection, or something else entirely? It’s a puzzling situation. For those dealing with broody hens and disrupted nesting habits, you might find some relatable insight in our recent piece on "My first broody hen.
Chicken Attack on Innocent Cat
## Chicken Attack on Innocent Cat: A Curious Cluck-Down! A surprising situation has ruffled some feathers – and potentially a few cat hairs! /u/FindtheBlind reports an unusual chicken attack on their cat during supervised yard time, a behavior they haven’t observed with their other feline companions. This sparks a fascinating question: why would chickens target a cat? While cats and chickens generally coexist peacefully, individual personalities and circumstances can always lead to fowl play. We’re diving into this intriguing scenario, exploring potential triggers and offering insights. Curious about other chicken quirks? Check out our article, "Silkies": I know the bloodline is good by the blue bright ear," for a deeper look into identifying silkie traits and more. Stay tuned as we unpack this unexpected interaction!
Black Australorp Throwback colors?
## Black Australorp Throwback Colors: A Quirky Question! So, you’ve got some chicks sporting unexpected colors and the seller suggested they’re simply "throwback" Australorps? It’s cluck-tastic to see those variations! While Australorps are known for their solid black plumage, genetics can be delightfully unpredictable. “Throwback” colors refer to recessive genes surfacing, resulting in shades outside the breed standard – think blues, wheaten, or even splashes of color. It *is* possible! These unexpected hues don’t change the bird’s breed, just their appearance. It’s a reminder that even in well-established breeds, a little fowl play with genetics can happen. For more on unexpected health concerns in your flock, check out our article, "Our silkie fava has an eye issue?" and explore the delightful surprises nature can bring!
Our silkie fava has an eye issue?
## Fava's Eye: A Cluck-Worthy Concern Our hearts cluck with concern for /u/Embarrassed-Stay2176’s sweet Silkie, Fava! This adorable 3-month-old's sudden eye anomaly—a noticeably smaller right eye and apparent vision loss—is understandably alarming. While chickens can be wonderfully quirky, this shift from healthy to exhibiting these symptoms warrants careful attention. It's great that no other members of the flock seem affected, suggesting an isolated issue. Is it a serious medical problem? Is there an infection causing the apparent “watering”? These are valid and important questions. We understand the worry of encountering your first sick or different chicken – it’s a feeling many of us share! For more insights into chicken behavior and bonding, check out /u/alphaky1e’s piece, "Just some protected family bonding.
Excuse me ma'am, why are you recording me?
## Decoding the Curious Query: "Excuse me ma'am, why are you recording me?" A recent post from /u/anet_12468 sparked a lively discussion – and a perfectly reasonable question: "Excuse me ma'am, why are you recording me?" This highlights a common, albeit unexpected, concern within the chicken-keeping community. While documenting your flock is often *egg-citing*, it’s crucial to be mindful of privacy and potential misunderstandings. We've ranked this question as a Top Priority because it underscores the need for clear communication and ethical practices when sharing content related to animals and their care. For a deeper dive into the joys and challenges of raising chicks, check out our article, "In n out with my chicks.
This means they like me, right?
## This Means They Like Me, Right? - 5th Chick Sleeping on Neck Is there anything more…*cluck-tastic* than a tiny chicken choosing you as their personal pillow? /u/Sasquatch_Sensei’s adorable dilemma—a fifth chick nestled comfortably on their neck—is a question on every chicken enthusiast's mind. It's a moment of feathered affection, but does it *really* mean your chickens adore you? Probably! While chicken behavior can be delightfully baffling, this snuggle session is a strong sign of trust and comfort. This cozy moment builds on the themes of connection we've seen in the community, like the importance of daily "boops" – as explored in /u/anet_12468's insightful article. Dive deeper into the quirky world of chicken companionship and discover more heartwarming moments shared by our readers.
Kali found the perfect dust bath spot 🖤
## Dust Bath Bliss! 🖤 Kali clearly knows how to live her best chicken life! This cluck-tastic dust bath spot, submitted by /u/LoGalliner, is a prime example of feathered friend happiness. We all know a good dust bath is essential for keeping those feathers clean, parasite-free, and generally fabulous. It's a simple pleasure, yet so vital to a chicken's wellbeing. Speaking of unexpected happenings, have you ever encountered something a little… off? Our recent article, "Embryos developed at the wrong end 😬," explores a rather unusual situation—a reminder that even in the world of chickens, things don't always go as planned! Check out the comments and discussion on this post and explore our site for more fowl play!
Green Snack
## Green Snack: A Chicken-Loving Community's Latest Delight! Welcome to the latest cluck-tastic submission from our community – Green Snack, shared by /u/The_Lake_Now_Feels! This exciting new addition promises a fresh perspective on chicken care and enrichment. We’re always thrilled to showcase the creativity and passion of our readers, and Green Snack is no exception. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or just starting your feathered friend journey, we invite you to explore this submission and join the conversation. Need help finding a new home for your flock as you relocate? Check out our article, "Rehoming Chickens," for helpful tips and resources. Get ready for some egg-citing discoveries—and maybe a little fowl play—as we delve into Green Snack together!
It's very important to boop your chicken once a day
## The Daily Boop: Why Your Chicken Will Thank You (Probably) Here's a cluck-tastic tip straight from our community: give your chicken a daily "boop!" Yes, you read that right. /u/anet_12468 sparked a fascinating discussion about this simple, yet surprisingly important, act. While the science is still…developing (chickens aren't exactly known for their lab reports), many keepers report improved mood and bonding through gentle head-boops. It's a lighthearted way to connect with your feathered friends and observe their individual personalities. Curious about the joys (and occasional surprises) of early egg-laying? Check out /u/BlackSwan1223’s charming post, "First egg!!!! So small haha," for a relatable glimpse into the chicken-keeping journey.
HELP
## Help! My Hen is Struggling – What Can I Do? Oh dear, a slow-growing hen facing pecking order woes and now exhibiting concerning signs? We've all been there – the cluck-tastic world of chicken keeping isn’t *always* sunshine and eggs! /u/Think-Opposite5367 is understandably worried about their 16-week-old hen, who’s showing lethargy, an almost sideways posture, and a concerning lack of head movement. Despite efforts with "no peck" and antibiotic sprays, the situation escalated with a significant feather loss. Separating the hen and administering medication is a great first step. However, her current condition suggests a potentially serious issue. While we can't offer veterinary diagnosis, understanding potential causes—ranging from persistent bullying to underlying illness—is key.
Our favorite hen Nimbus
Meet Nimbus, our absolute *cluck-tastic* favorite here at the farm! This hen consistently brightens our days with her gentle demeanor and the kindest eyes you ever did see. Nimbus embodies the quirky charm we adore about our feathered friends – a delightful mix of silliness and sweetness. She’s a reminder that even amidst the occasional “fowl play” of farm life, there’s always room for a little joy. Nimbus isn’t just a pretty face, though; she’s a testament to the resilience of these amazing creatures. If you’ve ever wondered about chicken health concerns, you might find our recent article, “Please help what's wrong with my chicken?,” helpful for understanding potential issues. We’re so glad to share Nimbus and our backyard farm adventures with you!
These chickens. They be nosy. But they got lil present on the way.
## They're Nosy...and Expecting! Our community continues to deliver the *cluck-tastic* content we love! User /u/TraditionOverall1411 has gifted us a delightful observation: "These chickens. They be nosy. But they got lil present on the way." Indeed! It seems a few of our feathered friends are feeling particularly inquisitive—and preparing for a very *egg-citing* arrival. This sentiment echoes the joy (and occasional chaos) found in so many chicken-keeping experiences. For a deeper dive into capturing the personality of your flock, check out /u/I-am-DoctorDonut’s charming piece, "Closest I can get to a portrait." Stay tuned for more updates from our community—because with chickens, there's always something happening!
Just some protected family bonding
## Just Some Protected Family Bonding: A Chicken Moment We All Understand Sometimes, the most heartwarming chicken moments are the simplest. /u/alphaky1e recently shared a delightful photo capturing just that: a cozy scene of protected family bonding with their feathered friends. It's a cluck-tastic reminder that chickens, despite their occasional quirks, can form surprisingly sweet connections. Whether it’s a nap, a snuggle, or just close proximity, these interactions highlight the unique relationships we build with our backyard flock. If you've ever wondered about the meaning behind your chicken’s affectionate behaviors, you might enjoy our article, "This means they like me, right?": 5th chick sleeping on neck – it explores similar heartwarming observations. It's egg-citing to see these connections unfold!
Has anyone seen a spot like this on a young crested chicken before?
A concerning spot has appeared on a crested chicken’s head, sparking curiosity and a quest for answers within the backyard chicken community! /u/Large-Bodybuilder333 recently posted on Reddit seeking advice, noting they’ve never encountered this unusual mark before. This situation highlights the unpredictable nature of chicken health and the value of shared experience. Is it a simple skin irritation, or something more serious? The post invites seasoned chicken keepers and fellow enthusiasts to lend their expertise. For those dealing with similar challenges, our article "Hen with prolapsed vent laid an egg - Now what?" offers insights into addressing unexpected health events. Join the discussion and help unravel this poultry puzzle!
First egg!!!! So small haha
## Tiny Treasure Alert! First Egg! Cluck-tastic news from /u/BlackSwan1223! Witness the egg-citing arrival of a first egg – and what a little cutie it is! We’re sending virtual high-fives and a whole lot of admiration for this milestone. It’s a moment every chicken keeper anticipates, a testament to healthy hens and happy flocks. This tiny treasure marks a significant achievement, and we’re thrilled to share the joy. First eggs are often surprisingly small, and the anticipation is *egg-ceptional*. For those new to the world of backyard chickens, this is just the beginning of a rewarding journey. Curious to learn more about the subtle signs your flock is preparing for a little present? Check out our recent piece, "These chickens. They be nosy.
Closest I can get to a portrait
## A Rooster's Redemption: The Story of DoctorDonut's Bond Prepare for a cluck-tastic tale of unlikely friendship! /u/I-am-DoctorDonut’s submission, “Closest I can get to a portrait,” offers a heartwarming glimpse into a powerful connection between a man and his rooster. It’s a story brimming with dedication, patience, and the quiet joy of shared companionship—a testament to the surprising bonds we can forge with our feathered friends. This submission beautifully captures the quirky reality of backyard chicken keeping, reminding us that even the most intimidating creatures can become cherished members of the family. For those facing similar decisions regarding their flock, our article "Rehoming Chickens" explores the practicalities of relocating poultry, offering valuable insights and support.
Rehoming Chickens
## Finding a New Home for Our Cluck-tastic Flock! Relocating can be egg-citing, but it also means saying goodbye to our beloved feathered friends! We're searching for a loving home for our flock of six hens as we move from San Diego to the Midwest. Our ladies consist of one Easter Egger (laying gorgeous olive eggs!), two Black Stars, two Rhode Island Reds, and one speckled Sussex. These great layers are around 2.5 years old and consistently produce about 5 eggs a day – a truly egg-cellent contribution! We’re happy to include any remaining feed and their waterer to help their transition. If you're in the San Diego area and interested in providing a forever home, or have advice on rehoming, please reach out!
Hen with prolapsed vent laid an egg - Now what?
Oh dear, a prolapsed vent and an egg? That’s a cluck-tastic combination of stress for both you and your hen, Rita! As one backyard chicken enthusiast who understands the occasional fowl play, we know this situation can be alarming. Following up on a recent post to the Backyard Chickens forum, Rita’s experience—laying a soft-shelled egg while battling a prolapse—raises some important questions. You’re already on the right track with honey, Preparation H, Vetericyn, and Hydro Hen; now it's about monitoring closely. Keep an eye out for any signs of egg yolk peritonitis, and ensure she's maintaining hydration and grit intake.
Just a man and his teen roo
## Just a Man and His Teen Roo: A Tale of Unexpected Bond /u/alphaky1e’s story of a burgeoning friendship with his adolescent rooster is cluck-tastic! It’s a heartwarming reminder that feathered friends can surprise us, even when they're entering their (sometimes dramatic) teenage years. This submission explores the unique connection between a man and his rooster, showcasing the joys and occasional challenges of coexisting with these complex creatures. Many chicken keepers face similar situations, whether navigating flock dynamics or finding new homes for their birds. If you're considering rehoming your own flock, you might find our article, "Rehoming Chickens," particularly helpful as you plan your next steps. Head over to [link] for more insights.
Not my hen but a neighbors
A neighbor’s hen is in a bit of a cluck-tastic predicament, and we're here to lend a wing! /u/No_Worker6654 reached out this morning about a hen with a persistently swollen foot, currently sporting two mysterious scabs. While bumblefoot is a common concern, no obvious cuts were visible today. We understand the worry – a hen’s foot health is *egg-citing*ly important! This situation highlights the importance of vigilance in flock care, and it's a scenario that echoes concerns raised in our article, "Cat problem NSFW mentions of chicken death," where predators impacting flock health were discussed. We'll be diving deeper into potential causes and supportive care options shortly. Stay tuned for advice – let's get this feathered friend feeling better!