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.
New chicks with diarrhea
Uh-oh, it looks like your new chicks might be dealing with a bit of a tummy trouble! Just two days in their new home and you’ve noticed some watery droppings, but they seem to be chirping happily and exploring their brooder like curious little explorers. It's great to hear they have clean food, water, and bedding, plus a nice shady spot to escape the heat! Diarrhea in chicks can sometimes be a sign of stress from their recent move, and the lighter, more watery droppings you mentioned are a promising sign of improvement. For more insights on chick behavior and health, check out our article "Teaching my rooster public humiliation because he pecked me" for some valuable tips.
Chicken saddle but make it fashion
When it comes to chicken couture, nothing says "fashion-forward" quite like a chicken saddle! My Ameraucana, Valerie, was facing a bit of a pecking problem from her fellow hens, but I found the perfect solution: an adorable saddle that not only protects her feathers and skin but also gives her a fabulous new look! Now, Valerie struts around the coop in style, and her feathery friends are too bewildered by her chic ensemble to even think about pecking her. Talk about solving two problems with one fashionable accessory! If you're curious about the colorful egg haul from our flock, check out “Today’s egg haul from the flock 🥚🌈” for more cluck-tastic insights!
Roo or hen?
Are you scratching your head over whether you've got a pullet or a cockerel on your hands? Fear not, chicken enthusiasts! We’re here to help you decode the feathered mysteries of your flock. In this delightful photo lineup, you’ve already pegged one of your older BCM as a roo, and we can definitely lend a hand with the rest. From the grey beauty you’re sure is a pullet to the rest of the gang, we’ll help you identify their delightful roles in your chicken drama. And if you're curious about other chicken health concerns, check out our article “New chicks with diarrhea” for some cluck-worthy advice. Let’s dive in and get to the bottom of this feathered puzzle together!
I found a baby chicken (I think) and I don't know what to do
Oh no—what a cluck-tastic surprise you’ve stumbled upon! Finding a baby chicken can feel like winning the lottery of feathered friends, but it’s also a bit of a head-scratcher, especially with two dogs in tow. Your instincts are spot on; getting help is the best first step. A vet can offer valuable advice or check if your new little buddy needs any special care. While returning them to where you found them might not be the safest option, don’t worry—you're not alone in this. Many chicken enthusiasts have faced similar dilemmas! For some entertaining insight, check out "Tess the Terrorist," where another chicken story unfolds. Let’s dive into what you can do next to keep your little one safe and sound!
Help! Underside balding
Evening everyone! I’m reaching out because one of my feathered friends is experiencing an unusual case of balding on her underside, and I’m scratching my head over it. She's about 18 months old, the largest of my three hens, and a hybrid breed. Despite my efforts, I haven’t spotted any mites or lice, and there’s no funky smell to report. She’s laying eggs regularly, though I've noticed an uptick in soft-shelled ones recently. The other hens aren’t giving her a hard time, and her appetite remains strong. However, I have seen some dirty feathers around her vent and a slight change in her droppings, possibly due to the current heatwave here in the UK. Any thoughts or insights would be greatly appreciated!
Finally finished my cordwood chicken coop! Cluckingham palace
After two summers and a spring of hard work, I’m over the moon to announce that my cordwood chicken coop—affectionately dubbed Cluckingham Palace—is finally complete! This project was born during a tumultuous time in my life, and it provided a much-needed focus, especially during those sleepless nights. The coop features a unique roundhouse design, boasting heavy timber framing and stunning cordwood masonry made from split cedar. Natural light floods in through large windows and whimsical glass bottle ends, creating an enchanting atmosphere for my feathered friends. Now, I’m excited to prepare for chicken move-in day! If you’re curious about the build process, check out my full journey [here](https://imgur.com/gallery/i7N95xB). Plus, if you’re dealing with chicken health issues, don’t miss our article on "Help! Underside balding."
Should I try to find a home for these now or is there still a chance it could be hens?
Are you pondering whether to find a new home for your feathered friends or hold out hope that they might just be hens? At 6 to 7 weeks old, your Orpington and Moss Egger are at a pivotal stage in their development. While roosters can start crowing as early as 8 weeks, there’s still a chance that both could be the egg-citing hens you’re dreaming of! It’s a nail-biting wait, but remember—many factors play into their gender development. If you’re feeling a bit lost, check out our article "Tips if you get chicks, don’t blink" for insights on raising your chicks and what signs to look for as they grow. Whatever you decide, remember: it’s all part of the cluck-tastic journey of chicken parenthood!
Tips if you get chicks, don’t blink
If you’re thinking about welcoming some adorable chicks into your life, hold onto your hats—these little feathered friends grow faster than you can say “cluck-tastic!” Just last week, my 4-month-old Cochin Bantam fit snugly in the palm of my hand, and now she’s strutting around like she owns the coop. Caring for chicks can be both egg-citing and a tad overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the world of poultry. But fear not! We’re here to share some tips that will help you navigate the delightful chaos of chick-rearing. And if you're curious about a chicken's health, check out our article on "Help! Underside balding" for insights on common concerns. Get ready for an adventure filled with laughter and maybe a little fowl play!
Coyote Survival
Gather 'round, chicken lovers! I’ve got a cluck-tastic—and slightly gut-wrenching—tale to share about my feathered friends and a surprise visit from Mr. Coyote. With a small flock of 10 free-ranging chickens on my wooded property, I’ve learned to navigate the joys and challenges of chicken-keeping. Unfortunately, that includes the occasional fowl play from predators. Recently, a lone coyote made its way onto my property while my loyal LGD dogs were preoccupied. Two hens were injured, and my brave rooster went missing. But one determined hen refused to give up! With a little DIY veterinary care, she’s not just surviving but thriving. If you want to dive deeper into chicken resilience, check out our article on "Roosters' legs and feet getting puffier over time."
My chickens are SO nosey🤣🐔 #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #BackyardChickens #FarmAnimals #Homestead
Oh, my cluck-tastic feathered friends are the nosiest little creatures you could ever imagine! 🐔🤣 They’re always pecking around, curious about every little thing happening in the backyard. Whether it’s a rustling in the bushes or a new treat spot, you can bet they’ll be right there, investigating with their beady eyes and cheeky clucks. It’s like having a flock of mini detectives on the homestead—always on the lookout for the next adventure (or snack). If you think your chickens are inquisitive, wait until you see mine in action! For more about their hilarious antics, don’t miss our article “You never know when the new treat spot could be a trap,” where I dive into their playful personalities. Join the fun!
Got any treats
Got any treats? This delightful query from /u/iamloubielou sparks a feathered frenzy of fun! Whether you’re looking to spoil your clucking companions or just curious about what tasty morsels they might enjoy, you’ve landed in the right coop! Treats can be a fantastic way to bond with your feathered friends and keep them clucking with joy. From garden goodies to store-bought delights, there’s a whole world of egg-citing options to explore. Speaking of treats, if you’re dealing with a chicken health hiccup, you might find our article "When it’s not sour crop" particularly helpful for those moments when your bird isn’t feeling its best. Let’s dive into the delicious details and get those chickens clucking for joy!
Help needed. Not sure how to add roof to this 19X15
Got the chicken-keeping bug but feeling a bit clucky about your roofing skills? It sounds like you're embarking on a feathered adventure, but now you’re left wondering how to cover that 19x15 space for your soon-to-be feathered friends! While chicken wire might seem like a quick fix, it’s not the best option for winter weather in Illinois, especially with snow piling up. You’ll want something sturdier to protect your chickens from the elements. Consider using plywood or metal sheeting for a solid roof that keeps them cozy and safe. For tips on integrating your new chickens and ensuring they settle in smoothly, check out our article "Integrating chicks part 2." Let’s get those chickens clucking in their new home!
Tess the Terrorist
Meet Tess the Terrorist, the feathered dynamo that’s sure to ruffle some feathers! Submitted by u/HTD_Bros, Tess is not your average chicken; she’s a whirlwind of mischief and charm that keeps everyone on their toes. With her quirky antics and bold personality, she embodies the delightful chaos that comes with raising our beloved feathered friends. Whether she's launching surprise attacks or plotting her next great escape, Tess is a reminder that chickens can be both hilarious and, well, a bit terrifying! For a peek at another chicken with a larger-than-life personality, check out our article on the 2-year-old índio Gigante rooster. Join the cluck-tastic conversation about our outrageous poultry pals and share your own chicken tales!
My beautiful Robert
Meet Robert, the feathered superstar submitted by /u/negrilatina! This charming chicken isn’t just any ordinary bird; he’s a delightful blend of personality and fluff that’s sure to warm your heart. Whether he’s strutting around the yard or curiously pecking at the ground, Robert embodies the whimsical spirit that keeps us all clucking with joy. If you’re smitten by adorable chicks, don’t miss our related piece, “11 weeks Old and already so much fluff!” submitted by /u/Mothmans_. It’s packed with cuteness and showcases the fluffiness that makes chick season so egg-citing! Dive into Robert's world and join the community of feathered friend enthusiasts who share the laughter, love, and sometimes chaotic moments of chicken-keeping. Check it out!
Teaching my rooster public humiliation because he pecked me
Ever had a rooster that just couldn't resist giving you a little peck? Well, you're not alone! In this delightful tale submitted by /u/snuffdcen, we dive into the humorous world of teaching a rooster a lesson in public humiliation after an unexpected peck. It’s a light-hearted reminder that even our feathered friends can have their mischievous moments, leaving us both exasperated and entertained. If you’re curious about the dynamics of chicken behavior and want to explore more about our lovely roosters, check out “My beautiful Robert” submitted by /u/negrilatina for a charming perspective. Join us for laughter, shared experiences, and some cluck-tastic insights into the whimsical life of raising chickens!
Chicken funnies
Get ready to cluck with laughter as we dive into the delightful world of chicken funnies! This hilarious reel, submitted by /u/alphaky1e, showcases the charming antics of our feathered friends in a way that’s sure to tickle your funny bone. Chickens may be quirky and unpredictable, but they bring joy and laughter to our lives—just like the moments captured in this reel. If you’re curious about all things chicken, don’t miss our article, "Help needed. Not sure how to add roof to this 19X15," where we explore the excitement (and occasional chaos) of getting started with your own flock. Join in on the fun and embrace the madness of chicken life!
A week difference! They grow so fast :))
In the whimsical world of chickens, it’s amazing how quickly our feathered friends grow! Just a week can make a cluck-tastic difference—those little fluff balls transform into vibrant, curious chicks, ready to take on the world (and maybe even the garden). If you’ve ever watched this rapid growth, you know it’s a mix of awe and a dash of madness, as you wonder how something so small can become so… well, chicken-like! For those navigating the ups and downs of chick care, don’t miss our article, "Roo or hen?", where you can dive into the delightful challenge of identifying your pullets and cockerels. Join the conversation and share your own experiences!
Why does he sit like this?
Why does he sit like this? It's a question that tickles the curiosity of every chicken enthusiast and casual observer alike! Our feathered friends often surprise us with their quirky behaviors, leaving us wondering if they’re just funny little guys or if something more serious is at play. In this light-hearted exploration, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of chicken antics and discuss whether your chicken's peculiar sitting position is simply a goofy quirk or a sign of a neurological condition. Spoiler alert: sometimes it’s just fowl play! If you're curious about other chicken-related topics, check out our article, "Tips if you get chicks, don’t blink," for more entertaining insights into the world of these charming cluckers.
Help!! Chick found on back and couldn’t get back up!
Oh no, it sounds like you’ve got a little chick in a bit of a pickle! Finding your one-month-old feathered friend on her back can be quite alarming, especially when she’s wobbling around like a tiny chicken acrobat. It’s great that you scooped her up and gave her a cozy spot in your kitchen while you figure out the next steps. Her initial splits position could indicate she’s a bit unsure on her feet, but don’t worry just yet! You might want to try enticing her with some tasty treats or exploring hydration options, like that electrolyte probiotic mix.
Elderly Chicken
Meet Pepper, my beloved elderly hen who has gracefully strutted through nearly a decade of life! Once the flock leader, she’s always been a quirky mix of sweet and sassy—especially when it comes to snatching treats! I adopted her when she was already a seasoned gal at seven years old, and to my surprise, she’s thrived well beyond expectations. While she still enjoys her little fat chicken runs, I’ve noticed her slowing down lately, often opting for cozy lap time instead. It’s bittersweet, as I face the reality that this winter may be her last. But I’m committed to showering her with love and special treats every day. Sharing this journey not only helps me cope but also connects me with our community.
Brahma Babies
Welcome to the world of Brahma Babies! You’ve recently added two feathered friends to your flock, and the excitement is palpable. With one Isabella chick outpacing the lemon in size and feathering, you’re right to wonder about their gender. While it’s still early days, those redder cheeks on Isabella could hint at a potential rooster—yikes! With only one other chick (fingers crossed for a hen), you’re wise to consider the possibility of adding another to avoid a lonely lady in your coop. If you’re eager for more insights, check out our related article, "Got any treats," where fellow chicken enthusiasts share their tips for pampering your feathered pals. Happy chickening!
mites or lice infestation
**Hi Reddit!** I’m currently housesitting for a friend and have stumbled upon a cluck-tastrophe in her chicken coop—tiny bugs are crawling everywhere! Before I unleash my own version of Armageddon, I need your help identifying whether these critters are mites or lice. We’re on Hawai'i Island, and these pesky bugs are swarming the hens’ feathers and bedding, even making their way into the eggs that just started pipping. They seem particularly concentrated around the skin of the hens’ faces. Any insights on what type of pest this could be would be greatly appreciated, along with tips on how to clear out this infestation quickly—especially for the newborn chicks and the rest of the flock. TIA!
🥵 97°F TODAY! Feeding Chickens & Egg Check LIVE
It’s a sizzling 97°F today, and that means it’s time to check in on our feathered friends and see what kind of egg-citing surprises they have for us! Join us for a live session as we dive into the quirks of feeding chickens in this heat. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken whisperer or just chickening out at the thought of handling these feathery divas, we’ve got you covered! Don’t forget to check out our article, “Easily one of the coolest barnyard mixes I’ve hatched out,” for some egg-spert advice and delightful stories from fellow chicken lovers. Let’s embrace the heat and make sure our girls are happy, hydrated, and ready to lay some cluck-tastic eggs!
If I'm 5'9", how tall does that make him? 🤔
If you're 5'9", you might feel like a giant among your feathered friends, but wait until you meet the two-year-old Índio Gigante rooster from Criatório SG in Brazil! These majestic birds are like the dinosaurs of the chicken world, towering over typical breeds and bringing a touch of whimsy to any backyard. Imagine the cluck-tastic moments that come with having such a magnificent creature strutting around! It’s a true delight to have them here in the U.S., where their size and personality can leave anyone in awe. If you want to dive deeper into the world of birds, check out our article on "Chicken videos" for some hilarious and heartwarming chicken antics! Get ready for a fowl-tastic adventure!