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.
Yolko - Nest in Peace
Meet Yolko, the once-bullied hen who transformed into a nurturing leader of the flock. Six years ago, she came into our lives alongside her partner, Clementine, and I must admit, she didn’t start off as my favorite. However, as Clem's health declined, Yolko revealed a sweet and protective side that melted my heart. After Clementine's passing, Yolko matured into a confident head hen, guiding her flock—especially Drizzle—with kindness, save for the occasional playful peck. Her “Yolko yolks” were always a delight, producing large, tasty eggs that became a favorite in our kitchen. It’s hard to believe that this spirited, friendly chicken is now gone. As we say goodbye, we remember her legacy: a true feathered friend. Nest in peace, Yolko.
What do you do if a “pullet” turns out to be a rooster and you absolutely can’t keep roosters?
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you’re gearing up for an egg-citing adventure with your new feathered friends! However, if one of your “pullets” surprises you by crowing like a rooster, don’t panic! Mistakes can happen, even with the best hatcheries. Planning ahead is a cluck-tastic approach! Many first-time owners have faced this dilemma, and rehoming can be a bit of a journey. Some have successfully found new homes through local farms, feed stores, or even online communities. If you're curious about the rehoming process, check out our article, "Anyone in Northeast Georgia want a rooster?" for real-life experiences. Remember, while it’s tough to part with a feathered friend, you’re not alone in this quirky chicken caper!
Dual purpose birds
Hey y’all! It’s been a cluck-tastic journey for my husband and me as we’ve shifted from our original plans of breeding dual purpose birds to raising and selling Cornish crosses. Our customers rave about the delicious meat, and we’re loving it too! But we can’t help but circle back to the reasons we wanted dual purpose birds in the first place. We’re considering offering both Cornish crosses and Freedom Rangers, along with our Barred Rock eggs, to give our customers more choices. The big question is: will they notice a difference in flavor or texture? I’d love to hear your thoughts, especially since you don’t get a lecture on sustainable farming when you pop into the grocery store!
Chicken Leg Tags
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! Welcome to the delightful world of naming your feathered friends—what a cluck-tastic adventure you’re embarking on! With your 11 Rock Island hens, you’re bound to discover their unique personalities, especially since a few have distinct markings. Using leg tags is a brilliant idea for tracking their health and wellness, and yes, they’re often called leg bands. You can find them in a rainbow of colors to match each bird’s fabulous personality! Speaking of quirky chicken antics, you might enjoy our article, "Caught the neighborhood snack thief red-handed..." for a hearty laugh. Best of luck with your girls, and don’t hesitate to share your naming ideas—we’d love to hear them!
Getting chickens to go into the coop
Getting your chickens to cozy up in the coop can sometimes feel like a feathered mystery! With 16 lovely ladies taking turns being the boss and a crew of 7 new chicks just hitting their teenage phase, it’s understandable that introducing them might come with a few hiccups. After all, those little ones seem to prefer hanging out under the coop rather than making their way to the warmth inside. You’ve put in the effort, even giving them a gentle nudge by picking them up and placing them at the door, but they still seem to be chickening out! If this sounds familiar, don’t fret—you’re not alone in this coop conundrum.
Everyone's favorite game🤣 hen or roo?
Get ready to put your chicken-guessing skills to the test with everyone's favorite game—Hen or Roo? In this delightful showdown, we have a silver-laced Wyandotte on the left and a large fowl Cochin on the right, both strutting their stuff at just six weeks old! Can you tell which one is the charming hen and which one is the dashing rooster? Share your guesses and join the fun! While you're at it, check out another feathered friend story, "TJ got a pool upgrade this year," submitted by u/SatanikRaccoon. It’s cluck-tastic to see how our poultry pals make a splash in their lives! Dive into the comments and let’s see who can crack the code of these adorable chicks!
Our New Additions
Get ready to cluck with excitement, because we have some fabulous new additions to share, submitted by the delightful u/CarolinaCoops! Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of feathered friends, this post is sure to tickle your funny bone and warm your heart. From the charming quirks of our beloved birds to the antics that leave us in stitches, there's plenty to enjoy. And if you're in the mood for more chicken shenanigans, be sure to check out the article “Caught the neighborhood snack thief red-handed…” — it’ll have you laughing out loud! Dive in and join the clucky conversation!
Why is my chicken yawning?
Have you ever caught your bantam chicken yawning and thought, "Is she tired or just bored?" Well, you’re not alone! At around eight weeks old, your feathered friend is still growing and discovering the world, and yawning can be a perfectly normal behavior for chickens. It could simply be a sign that she’s relaxed or just waking up from a cozy nap. However, if you notice any other unusual behaviors or signs of distress, it might be worth keeping a closer eye on her. For more insights into your chicken’s quirky antics, check out "Unexpected frizzled chick," where fellow enthusiasts share their delightful experiences with their own feathery companions. Remember, every day with chickens is an egg-citing adventure!
What is this chick doing?
Ever found yourself scratching your head, wondering, “What is this chick doing?” You’re not alone! Chickens are quirky little creatures, and their behaviors can sometimes leave us perplexed. Whether it’s an odd dance, a peculiar peck, or a sudden burst of energy, these feathered friends have a way of keeping us on our toes. If your chick has been acting a bit off or just plain silly, don’t worry—we’re here to help unravel the mystery! Plus, if you're curious about chicken breeds and their unique traits, check out our article "In your opinion, what’s the best chicken breed and WHY?" for some egg-citing insights! Let’s dive into the wonderful world of chick behavior together!
Day 337 of drawing 1 chicken per day
Welcome to Day 337 of my chicken-drawing adventure! As I inch closer to a full year of sketching one chicken a day, I can confidently say this might be my favorite creation yet! What started as a project to teach my kids the value of persistence has blossomed into a delightful lunchtime ritual at work. Each drawing is inspired by the amazing photos shared in our backyard chicken group—thank you all for the cluck-tastic inspiration! While I may not have the most refined talent, I’ve been grinding away, and I’m proud of my progress. If you’re interested in more chicken fun, check out “Morning Mom, another busy day” for some delightful insights! 😁
How do you preserve the quality of your eggs?
Are you ready to embark on an egg-citing journey to preserve the quality of your beloved eggs? Whether you're stocking up for a weekend brunch or simply want to ensure your feathered friends' hard work doesn’t go to waste, there are plenty of ways to keep those eggs fresh and fabulous! One popular method is to store them in a chiller at the right temperature, but let's crack open a few more ideas together! We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences, so don’t be shy about sharing. And if you’re curious about your little ones, check out “Everyone's favorite game🤣 hen or roo?” for a fun exploration of your growing flock. Let’s get clucking on preserving those egg-cellent treasures!
Any guesses on their breed?
Have you ever found yourself scratching your head over your chickens’ true breed? That’s exactly what our friend, u/lemon_candybar, is experiencing! Initially told they were Black Sex-Links, they quickly dismissed that notion when these feathery friends didn’t match up. As time passed, they leaned towards thinking they might be Black Australorps, but now, a year in, they’re left puzzled by their unique dark brown plumage. Are they simply a mixed breed? If you’ve faced similar poultry mysteries, dive into this cluck-tastic discussion! And if you want to share in the fun, check out our article “Caught the neighborhood snack thief red-handed…” for more whimsical chicken antics! Let’s unravel this chicken conundrum together!
Unexpected frizzled chick.
Hey there, chicken enthusiasts! It looks like our friend Happy-Emphasis5231 has stumbled upon an egg-citing surprise with their new batch of chicks. While expecting standard feathered friends from a reputable breeder, they found an unexpected frizzled chick instead! This raises some clucking questions: How did those quirky feathers come about, and is it a cause for concern? Fear not, frizzled feathers can add a delightful twist to your flock, and who knows—it might be the start of a fabulous frizzled Easteregger trend! If you're curious about the potential of these unique birds, check out our article "My sweet little bantam" for more fun insights into the colorful world of chickens. Let’s dive into this feathered mystery together!
Have you ever seen a black copper maran rooster like mine?(white on feathers)
Have you ever spotted a black copper Maran rooster like mine, with those eye-catching white tail feathers? I’ve scoured the internet for images and come up empty-handed, leaving me to wonder if my feathered friend is truly one-of-a-kind. The unique blend of colors makes me feel like I’ve struck gold in the chicken world! If you’re a fellow chicken enthusiast or simply appreciate the quirks of our feathered friends, I invite you to join the conversation. Let’s share our experiences and thoughts on the fascinating traits of different chicken breeds. Plus, if you're curious about chickens with attitude, check out “Met some chickens with attitude” submitted by /u/No_Performance_746 for some cluck-tastic tales!
I assume this is scaley leg?
Is that scaley leg we're seeing in these three chickens? It’s a common concern among chicken keepers, especially when our feathered friends start showing signs of discomfort. Chickens No. 1 and 3, with their feathery legs, might have you wondering if scaley leg is still lurking underneath those lovely plumage. While scaley leg can affect any chicken, it often presents itself in specific ways. If you’re curious about this condition, you're not alone! For more insights into unusual chicken behaviors, check out the article "Woke up to one of my girls like this... 😢," where a concerned owner shares about her chicken's strange sitting habits. Let’s dive into the world of chicken health and see what we can discover together!
Chick on mother
Get ready for some cluck-tastic cuteness! Submitted by u/Silver-Ad-3981, this heartwarming post showcases a mother hen with her adorable chick, reminding us all of the joys—and occasional chaos—of raising our feathered friends. Whether you're a seasoned chicken whisperer or just dipping your toes into the world of poultry, there's something special about witnessing the bond between a hen and her chick. If you’re curious about chicken breeds, don’t miss our article "Any guesses on their breed?" where we dive into the details of identifying these delightful birds. Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and let’s celebrate the whimsical world of chickens together! Check out the full post and join the fun [here](insert link).
Are my chickens fat
Are my chickens fat? It’s a cluck-tastic question that many chicken keepers ponder, especially when the family patriarch treats them like his own grandchildren! If your dad’s been showering those feathered friends with treats, it’s no wonder they’re looking a bit larger than life. While it’s heartwarming to see such love for your flock, it’s essential to ensure they’re not becoming overindulged. Obesity in chickens can lead to some egg-citing but concerning health issues. You might want to have a gentle chat with your dad about finding that perfect balance. For more on the ups and downs of chicken parenting, check out “I’m so sad and discouraged,” where fellow keepers share their flock challenges. Let’s keep those chickens happy and healthy!
Poppy butt not eating
Oh no, it sounds like one of your Queens is having a rough time! A poppy butt and loss of appetite, especially when she's turning up her beak at her beloved scrambled eggs, can be concerning. Given that she’s been standing still and closing her eyes, it’s understandable that you’re feeling a bit frantic. It’s possible that the watermelon feast in this heat could have upset her tummy. Remember, chickens can be sensitive to sudden dietary changes! While it’s great that she seems to prefer the company of her sisters, keeping a close eye on her is essential. For more insights on chicken behavior, you might want to check out our article, "Why is my chicken yawning?
Morning Mom, another busy day.
Good morning, fellow chicken enthusiasts! As another busy day unfolds at the coop, it’s time to embrace the delightful chaos of our feathered friends. From the charming antics of our silkies to the unexpected surprises of daily chicken care, every moment is a blend of joy and a sprinkle of madness. Whether you’re wrangling your flock or just enjoying their quirky personalities from afar, remember that you’re not alone in this clucky adventure. If you’re curious about what your chicks may be missing nutritionally, check out the insightful discussion in "What nutrients are my girls missing?" for some egg-citing tips! Let’s dive into this day together—after all, it’s a cluck-tastic journey worth sharing! #chicks #silkies #chicken
In your opinion, what’s the best chicken breed and WHY?
Choosing the best chicken breed can feel like a clucky conundrum, especially when your family debates the ins and outs of cold tolerance, foraging abilities, and egg production! Imagine facing future challenges like supply chain hiccups or food shortages—your feathered friends must be resilient and efficient. In a best-case scenario, the versatile and hardy Rhode Island Red often shines for its egg-laying prowess and adaptability. However, in a worst-case scenario, you might lean toward the cold-hardy Wyandotte, known for both its hardiness and robust foraging skills, which could help mitigate predator risks. Curious to learn more about the quirks of chicken breeds? Check out "Met some chickens with attitude" for a delightful dive into avian personalities!
Met some chickens with attitude
Meet the sassiest feathered friends you’ll ever encounter! Submitted by /u/No_Performance_746, this tale dives into the delightful world of chickens with a serious attitude problem. These quirky cluckers bring a whole new meaning to the phrase “fowl play,” showcasing their unique personalities that can leave even the most seasoned chicken keepers scratching their heads. Whether you’re a devoted chicken enthusiast or simply someone who finds these birds amusingly intimidating, you’ll find plenty to relate to in this charming story. And if you’re curious about the dynamics of your own flock, check out “Are my chickens fat?” for some egg-citing insights into chicken care that could help keep your girls strutting their stuff with confidence!
Woke up to one of my girls like this... 😢
Waking up to find one of your beloved girls in distress is never easy, especially when you’ve noticed her acting a bit off lately. It sounds like you’ve been attentive to her needs, particularly with the recent adjustments to her environment. The added panels may have made things a bit too toasty, and the signs you’ve observed—like her sitting down frequently and the yellowish poop—could certainly indicate that something was amiss. It’s tough to say if the heat was the main culprit or if she was already feeling unwell. If you’re looking for more insights, check out our article on “What is this chick doing?” to explore other potential issues that could affect your feathered friends.
Is she a he?
Is Nana a he? At just around 8 weeks old, it’s a cluck-tastic age for figuring out whether your feathered friend is a future egg-laying superstar or a rooster ready to serenade you at dawn! Early mornings may be in your future, so it’s time to prepare for some potential crowing. But hold your feathers—should you consider renaming Ned if Nana turns out to be a ‘he’? This delightful conundrum is something many chicken enthusiasts grapple with, and we’re here to help you navigate this fowl situation! For more insights on determining your chick’s gender, check out "Everyone's favorite game🤣 hen or roo?" to dive deeper into the whimsical world of poultry identification!
Frizzle ?
Have you ever stumbled upon the delightful world of frizzle chickens? Well, you're in for a treat! Our friend, u/No_Effective29, just discovered these quirky feathered wonders and is curious if their beloved little hen, Citrine, a Pekin bantam, might be one of them. Weighing in as the tiniest and lightest member of the flock, Citrine has captured their heart, and it seems like there's a special connection brewing. If you're equally intrigued by the charm of frizzle chickens or want to explore other fascinating breeds, check out our related article, "Any guesses on their breed?" for more insights. Join the conversation and share your thoughts about these whimsical birds that make poultry life so much egg-citing!