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.
First of the second wave of hatches!
Cluck-tastic news from the coop! Our beloved blue cochin, Penelope, has welcomed her latest bundle of joy, marking the first of the second wave of hatches! This is her third clutch in just two years—what a devoted mama! With three more eggs nestled under her feathery warmth, we can expect more excitement soon. Plus, her daughter Boots, a charming cochin-Ameraucana cross, is gearing up for her very first clutch alongside flockmate Junebug, a striking black Jersey Giant. Just today, I was musing about naming one of the chicks Nettle, inspired by a delightful video from u/Apocalyptic_Bird_Man. Curious about what’s happening in the world of chickens? Don’t miss our article on “5 eggs in 2 days from the same hen!!” for some egg-citing insights!
Cockerel
Are you scratching your head trying to identify your cockerel’s breed? You’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves in a cluck-tastically puzzling situation when it comes to distinguishing different breeds. Cockerels come in a delightful variety of feathered friends, each with their own unique traits and personalities. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or a casual chicken lover, the quest for breed identification can be both amusing and a little daunting. If you’re eager to dive deeper into the world of chickens, check out our article, "What kind of chickens?" for some egg-citing insights. Let’s embark on this feather-filled journey together and unravel the mystery of your handsome cockerel!
Stop drinking it!
Stop drinking it! Chickens certainly have a knack for turning any situation into a clucking conundrum. Take, for instance, the cooling station we set up with a tote, concrete block, and ice water. You’d think our feathered friends would dive in headfirst—after all, who wouldn’t want a refreshing drink on a hot day? But nope! Instead, they opted to use it as their personal restroom, all while ignoring the perfectly chilled water in their waterer. Chickens, man. Am I right? If you’re scratching your head over your own flock’s quirky antics, you’re not alone! For more chicken wisdom, check out "I lost my favorite girl today," where we share the love and loss of our beloved birds.
When you order a flamingo off Temu.
Ever found yourself scrolling through Temu and thought, "I could really use a flamingo in my life?" Well, you're not alone! This whimsical journey into the world of online shopping has everyone buzzing with excitement, and our feathered friend takes center stage. Whether you're looking to add a pop of color to your garden or simply want to embrace your quirky side, ordering a flamingo can lead to some egg-citing surprises. But be warned—it's not just about the order; it's about the unexpected hilarity that follows! For a delightful peek into how garden helpers like flamingos can transform your space, check out “The garden helpers have arrived” submitted by /u/Evil_Jellyfish_. Dive in and discover the joy of adding a splash of whimsy to your home!
Spooky is…
Spooky is more than just a name; it's a testament to the bond your son shares with this charming feathered friend! As you navigate the delightful world of chicken-keeping, it’s natural to wonder about Spooks’ gender, especially with that pronounced comb and rosy hue. With three Lavender Orpingtons and three Rhode Island Blues in your flock, you’re off to a cluck-tastic start! Plus, those new Easter Eggers are sure to add some egg-citing dynamics once they're ready to join the party. When the time comes to introduce your “golden girls” to the “ladies,” we'll be here to help with tips and tricks. For more insights into chicken adventures, check out "First Ever Backyard Chickens!" to connect with fellow enthusiasts. 🐣🤍
How long do you let a broody bird go?
When it comes to dealing with a broody bird like Bean, a stunning year-old backyard blend, the struggle is real—especially when she’s been committed to her nest for nearly a month! As she clucks away, refusing to budge, you may find yourself in a bit of a pickle, particularly with the summer heat soaring over 100 degrees in the coop. Kicking her out for a daily hour of chicken business is a great start, but you’re right to be concerned about her well-being. So, how long should you let her stay broody? It’s a balance of compassion and practicality. If you’re looking for more insights, check out our article on "Broody mom rejecting chicks?" for valuable tips on navigating these feathered dilemmas.
5 eggs in 2 days from the same hen!!
Wowza! Five eggs in just two days from your 23-week-old hen? That's quite the egg-stravaganza! While it’s not the usual egg-laying marathon, it can happen—especially when hens are excited or in peak laying condition. It sounds like your feathered friend is thriving, with no changes in behavior or appetite. Just keep an eye on her, ensuring she has access to plenty of fresh water, nutritious feed, and a comfy nesting spot. If you’re curious about other chicken care topics, check out "Do you count your chickens every night?" for some fun insights. Remember, every chicken has its quirks, so embrace the egg-citement and enjoy the show! Keep those cluck-tastic vibes going!
first egg!
Oh, the joy of your first egg! Congratulations on this cluck-tastic milestone in your chicken-keeping adventure! There's nothing quite like the thrill of discovering that your feathered friends have rewarded your care with their very first egg. It’s a moment that will surely leave you over the moon and filled with pride. If you’re curious about maximizing the egg-citing potential of your hens, you might want to check out our article “3 hens, one nest,” which explores cozy nesting options to keep your girls happy and productive. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting out, the journey with your chickens is bound to be filled with laughter, surprises, and maybe a little fowl play along the way! Enjoy every moment of this egg-straordinary experience!
What kind of chickens?
Curious about your new feathered friends? It sounds like you’ve embarked on a cluck-tastic journey! Adopting two chickens from your son’s kindergarten class is sure to bring a delightful mix of joy and confusion—especially when it comes to identifying their breed. Since you’ve previously had Leghorns, you might find yourself comparing these newbies to those lively layers. At 5 weeks old, they’re in that adorable stage where their true colors—and perhaps their genders—are starting to show. If you’re itching for more insights on distinguishing between hens and roosters, check out "Hen or roo? 5.5 weeks ish" for some handy tips! Let’s dive into the world of chicken breeds together and unravel the mystery of your new pals!
Rescued highway chicken gets 12 friends
In a heartwarming tale that’s sure to tickle your funny bone, a rescued highway chicken has found her flock—12 feathered friends, to be exact! With 10 Barred Rocks and 2 Production Blues joining the crew, this little lady certainly didn’t shy away from making new pals, especially when they were just 99 cents a chick! Talk about an egg-citing deal! Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just dipping your toes into the clucky world of poultry, this story will surely resonate. And if you’re curious about the antics of chickens, don’t miss our article, "I didn't know they can eat frog but it's always fun to watch them chase each other for food," for more delightful chicken fun.
I lost my favorite girl today.
Today, I lost my favorite girl, Penny, and my heart aches. She was the sweetest chicken, always ready to jump on my shoulder and follow me around, her happy little sounds echoing as I lifted rocks to reveal tasty bugs. “Hi Penny, my love,” I’d say, and she’d tilt her fluffy head, as if to soak up every ounce of affection. Her gentle purrs while nestled in my lap taught me the beauty of loving chickens. This morning, however, she was still in the run, showing no signs of sickness—just gone. I haven’t let my emotions fully surface yet, but I felt compelled to share her story with you all.
Anyone know what kind of chicken this is?
Hey chicken enthusiasts! 🐔 Ever found yourself scratching your head over a feathered friend’s identity? Join the club! Our fellow chicken lover, u/DayDroid32, is on a quest to identify a mysterious barred chicken with a fabulous Afro—definitely not a Black Star! With five Black Stars and two Diamond Duchesses in the mix, it’s a real fowl mystery! If you’ve ever faced a similar conundrum, you know the struggle is real. Speaking of chickens with personality, don't miss our article, "I love chickens, so I made a game about flying one," for some cluck-tastic fun! Let’s dive into this chicken ID adventure together and see if we can crack the case of the fabulous Afros! 🐥✨
Speedy
Meet Speedy, the feathered superstar who has stolen the heart of our fellow chicken enthusiast, u/No_Alarm_3993! This delightful post features a few charming snapshots of Speedy, who has become a beloved member of the family. Chickens bring so much joy and laughter into our lives, and Speedy is no exception. If you’re curious about other chicken tales, don’t miss the article “I love chickens, so I made a game about flying one” submitted by u/GreenLemonMusic, which combines fun and creativity in the chicken world. Join us in celebrating our feathered friends and share your own quirky chicken stories in the comments below! Let’s cluck-tastic together!
First Ever Backyard Chickens!
Welcome to the cluck-tastic world of backyard chickens! As you hit the week 4 mark with your Easter Eggers, it’s time to put on your detective hat and figure out if your blondie might be a Roo. With feather development, comb size, and leg thickness all playing a role in the mystery, it can feel like a game of fowl hide-and-seek! The confident black pullet seems to be strutting her stuff, while the shy blondie raises some questions. If you need to swap him out before he becomes a noisy problem, look for those telltale signs of masculinity—like a larger comb and those red wing feathers. For more insights, check out "Cockerel" for breed-specific advice and community support. Happy chicken keeping!
What kind of chickens?
Curious about the feathered friends you’ve adopted? It’s always exciting to welcome new chickens into your home, especially when they come with a mystery breed! Since you’ve previously had Leghorns, you might notice some differences in your new pals. At five weeks old, it can be tricky to determine their breed and whether they’re indeed hens, but fear not—many enthusiasts have navigated this clucky conundrum! If you’re looking for insights, check out our article, "Wobbley Acting Chicken," where other chicken owners share their experiences with young birds and their behaviors. Embrace the adventure of chicken parenthood, and let’s unravel the mysteries of your new flock together!
I love chickens, so I made a game about flying one
If you’re a chicken lover with a penchant for fun, you’re in for a treat! The delightful mind of u/GreenLemonMusic has hatched a cluck-tastic game that lets you soar through the sky as one of our feathered friends. Imagine flapping your wings and navigating challenges in a whimsical world, all while embracing the quirky charm that chickens bring to our lives. This game is a feathered flight of fancy that promises laughter and joy for both seasoned chicken enthusiasts and those who might still be chickening out when it comes to our fowl friends. And if you're curious about the dynamics of roosterhood, don’t miss u/brandlll's article on their mixed chicks! Let the fun begin!
Wobbley acting chicken
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken care! It sounds like you've got quite the feathered crew on your hands. Introducing new chickens can be a cluck-tastic adventure, but it also comes with its challenges. It’s concerning to hear about your lady who’s been hanging back and showing signs of discomfort. A red and swollen vent can be a sign that she needs some extra TLC. Soaking her in warm water is a great start! As for isolating her, that might be wise to ensure she gets the rest she needs without the hustle and bustle of her flock. Don't forget to check out our article, “5 eggs in 2 days from the same hen!!” for more insights into your chickens’ behaviors. Happy clucking!
How much a chick can change
Meet Candy Girl, the smallest, most nondescript chick who turned out to be a vibrant surprise! Growing up, she didn't seem like much—just another tiny fluffball in the coop. But as she matured, Candy Girl blossomed into a colorful personality, proving that great things come in small packages. Her transformation reminds us that every chick has a story waiting to unfold, often filled with unexpected charm and character. If you’re curious about the delightful antics of chickens, check out our piece, "Happy roo," featuring Honey and his nest-building skills. Embrace the whimsy of our feathered friends and discover how they can truly change your perspective—one cluck at a time!
His little chirps are soothing to the soul.
His little chirps are soothing to the soul—there’s just something about the gentle melody of a happy chick that can melt even the most hardened hearts. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just an admirer from afar, these adorable sounds remind us of the simple joys of farm life. The delightful antics of our feathered friends not only bring laughter but also a sense of comfort and connection. If you’re looking for more heartwarming chicken stories, check out "All this space to run and still a mama's boy :)" submitted by u/Mothmans_. Embrace the whimsy and joy that comes with raising chickens, and let their sweet chirping fill your days with happiness!
All this space to run and still a mama's boy :)
Get ready to chuckle! Our latest post, "All this space to run and still a mama's boy :)," submitted by the ever-entertaining /u/Mothmans_, captures the heartwarming antics of a little chicken who just can’t seem to break away from mama’s side. This delightful tale showcases the quirky bonds we share with our feathered friends, reminding us that even the most adventurous chicks can have a soft spot for their moms. If you're intrigued by the playful side of poultry, you might also enjoy “The garden helpers have arrived,” submitted by /u/Evil_Jellyfish_, which explores how our chickens help us in the garden. Dive in and join the fun as we celebrate the whims of chicken life!
How do i price these eggs?
Are you ready to crack the code on pricing your freshly laid eggs? Welcome to the whimsical world of egg selling, where surplus meets chicken debt—an all-too-familiar tale for many first-time chicken owners! With your Mystic Onyx girls laying eggs in all shapes and sizes, it’s time to figure out how to price them without feeling like you’re in a fowl play situation. While you may be tempted to go cheap due to their quirky dimensions, striking a balance is key. Should you wash those eggs or keep them unwashed? Fear not! The answers are just a cluck away. For more insights, check out our article "How do you preserve the quality of your eggs?" for tips on keeping your egg game strong!
Sour crop????
Oh no, it sounds like your young poullet might be dealing with a case of sour crop! This condition can happen when her crop isn't emptying properly, leading to that water balloon feeling and those watery droppings. It’s essential to act quickly, especially since you've already experienced the heartbreak of losing a chicken. You might want to consider offering her some apple cider vinegar in her water to help balance things out, but make sure to consult a vet for the best treatment. Remember, you’re not alone in this chicken adventure—check out our article on "Met some chickens with attitude" for a lighthearted distraction and community support! Keep an eye on your feathered friend; we’re rooting for her recovery!
My sweet little bantam
Meet Finn, short for Chicken Finnger, your charming little bantam! This feathered friend was rescued from Tractor Supply, and you might be wondering about his gender. With his vibrant red coloring compared to his pals, you’re on the right track in assuming he’s a roo. Roosters often flaunt their vivid hues as they strut their stuff! If you’re curious to dive deeper into the delightful world of chicken gender surprises, check out our article, "What do you do if a 'pullet' turns out to be a rooster and you absolutely can’t keep roosters?" Join the fun and share your chicken adventures with us—there’s always room for more cluck-tastic stories in our community!
Upgraded to hardware cloth
Upgrading to hardware cloth is a cluck-tastic way to boost your chicken coop’s security! After three years of relying on chicken wire, which has kept our feathered friends safe from predators, I decided to make this change for the long haul. While I haven’t suffered any losses, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to our beloved birds. Hardware cloth offers stronger protection and peace of mind, ensuring that my flock can roam without a worry. If you’re contemplating similar upgrades, you might also enjoy our article "Unexpected frizzled chick," which dives into the surprises that come with raising chickens. Join the conversation and let’s keep our flocks safe and sound together!