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.
My baby has new friends!
My baby has new friends, and we couldn’t be more egg-cited! Meet Ruby, the big one with a personality as bold as her feathers, and Peaches, the little black beauty who’s full of charm. Together, they’re bringing a whole new level of cluck-tastic joy to our little farm! If you’ve ever wondered about the dynamics of introducing new feathered friends to your flock, you’re not alone. Check out our article, "Has anyone experienced two broody hens fighting/sharing a nest?" to see how Doodle, my white silkie, has navigated her own broody adventures. Join us for more whimsical chicken tales and share your own experiences with your feathered pals!
Psycho Sharons release postponed until Sunday due to inclement weather
Psycho Sharon's much-anticipated release has been postponed until Sunday due to inclement weather, but don't worry—she's making strides! After an extra therapy session to help manage her frustrations, her yard time took a wild turn when a spirited spat with her sister from another mister led to an unexpected food fight. Unfortunately, this ruckus resulted in her temporary return to a newly upgraded holding cell, complete with more sunlight and visibility. As if that wasn’t enough excitement, she voiced her opinions loudly while the warden's kids tried to turn the garage into a dirt bike workshop—let’s just say the warden quickly put a stop to that! Stay tuned for her release tonight at 7:30 PM, where she’ll be sporting LED lights for tracking.
Sometimes chicks don't "zip" to get out of the egg
Hatching chicks is a delightful journey filled with surprises, and sometimes those surprises come in the form of chicks that don’t quite follow the textbook rules. While many believe all chicks should “zip” out of their eggs, my experience hatching hundreds has shown that a few like to break the mold—literally! Occasionally, you’ll find a chick that creates just a small hole instead of a full cap, and while some manage to wiggle out, others may find themselves in a bit of a pickle, needing a helping hand. One fascinating instance involves a chick that’s currently chipping away at its shell in a circular fashion. As long as it hatches healthy, who are we to judge their unique style?
Question about Thai rooster
Welcome to the cluck-tastic world of chicken integration! If you have a new Thai rooster who’s still finding his footing in the coop, you might be wondering how he’ll get along with your lively Leghorns. The good news is that with a bit of patience and understanding, your feathered friends can form a harmonious flock. Newcomers often need time to adjust, especially when they're still developing. To ease the transition, consider keeping a close eye on their interactions and providing plenty of space for your rooster to establish himself. If you're looking for more insights on integrating young birds, check out our article, "Integrating 5 Week Old Pullets into Flock." Happy clucking and may your coop be filled with joy and harmony!
Thelma has breached containment
Uh-oh, folks—Thelma has breached containment! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a feisty chicken decides to go rogue, you’re in for a cluck-tastic tale that’s bound to ruffle some feathers. This cheeky little bird has taken her antics to a whole new level, leaving her caretakers both amused and slightly frazzled. For those who find themselves giggling (or gasping) at Thelma’s escapades, you’re not alone! If you’re curious about chicken personalities, be sure to check out our article, "Breed differences in chicks!" where we dive into the delightful quirks of our feathered friends. Join the conversation and share your own tales of chicken mischief—let’s embrace the chaos together!
Has anyone experienced two broody hens fighting/sharing a nest?
Have you ever found yourself in a clucky conundrum with two broody hens battling for nest supremacy? Doodle, my sweet white silkie, has been fiercely dedicated to her eggs for weeks. But now, enter Milly, the gray (lavender Orpington) with a penchant for commandeering nests! She’s taken over Doodle’s cozy spot while the poor gal just wants a peaceful brooding experience. With three identical nesting boxes nearby, one can’t help but wonder: is this a case of fowl play or an unexpected co-parenting adventure? If you’ve navigated similar poultry predicaments, we’d love to hear how it turned out for you! And if you’re feeling the broody vibes, check out our article on integrating younger pullets for more feathered fun!
Shade for Chickens
Are you ready to keep your Buff Orpington chicks cool and comfy in the California heat? These feathered friends may look adorable, but they can struggle in high temperatures, making shade a must-have in their fenced area. It’s crucial to find a solution that offers robust protection against not just the sun, but also those pesky winds that can whip through your backyard. While a flimsy tarp might not cut it, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that can stand tall against the elements. If you’re also dealing with other chicken care conundrums, check out our article “Scaley leg mites and ivermectin in the U.K.” for some handy tips. Let’s get those little cluckers some shade!
Is this a roo or hen
Is this a roo or a hen? The eternal question that dances through the minds of chicken enthusiasts everywhere! If you’re scratching your head over your two-month-old Sapphire Gem, you’re not alone. Determining the sex of your feathered friend can feel like a game of chicken roulette! With their charming personalities and unique features, these little ones can sometimes keep us guessing. Whether you’re hoping for a clucky hen or a proud rooster, it’s all part of the fun—and occasional frustration—of chicken keeping. For more insights on integrating your baby chicks with the rest of the flock, check out "From Brooder to Coop." Let’s dive into the delightful world of poultry identification together!
Integrating 5 week old pullets into flock
Hey there, chicken tenders! It sounds like you’re in quite the feathered pickle with your 5-week-old pullets and your one-year-old hens. Integrating new chicks can be a cluck-tastically tricky process, especially when the pecking order rears its head—literally! It’s great that you’ve been keeping your chicks safe in their crate, but now that they’re getting too big, it’s time to strategize their introduction. Since the lowest hen has been a bit of a bully, keeping the chicks separate for a while longer might be the best course of action. Remember, patience is key! For some light-hearted insight on flock dynamics, check out “Big girl Odie laid a big ole egg” for some egg-citing inspiration! Let's get those feathered friends integrated safely!
Breed differences are crazy in chicks!
Welcome to Day 4 of our chick journey! 🐣 It's amazing how much personality these little fluffballs already have—each one is a unique character! For instance, our Barred Rocks seem to be on a confidence high, acting like they own the place. Are they just wild, or did we accidentally get a couple of roosters? Meanwhile, our Brahmas are the chillest of the bunch—one is especially docile. Is that typical, or should I be concerned? And let’s not forget our flighty Azures—do they really not like me, or is that just their nature? The Olive Eggers fit my expectations for chick behavior perfectly. Loving this adventure in chicken motherhood! For more insights, check out our article on letting a broody hen raise store-bought chicks.
Help me identify my chicken
Hey, fellow chicken enthusiasts! 🐔 Meet Glum_Guard_5738’s feathered friend—this 14-week-old gal is sporting a funky puff on her head that’s sticking around longer than expected. Initially labeled a blue-breasted brown leghorn, our friend suspects she might actually be a cream crested legbar. If you’ve ever been puzzled by your chicken’s identity during those awkward teen years (trust us, we’ve all been there!), this is your chance to lend a helping hand! If you think you can crack the code on her breed, drop your thoughts below. And while you’re at it, check out “4 week old Seramas” for more chicken chatter and community insights on all things feathered. Let’s solve this chicken mystery together! 😊
Psycho Sharons flashback video
Get ready to cluck with delight as we dive into Psycho Sharon's flashback video! It seems she's always been a bundle of rage and discontent—even at just one year old in 2023! If you missed the earlier upload, don’t worry; it might pop up twice, giving you double the fun. This quirky glimpse into her youthful antics is bound to resonate with anyone who’s ever felt a bit flustered by their feathered friends. And speaking of adorable chaos, check out "Hen and the lil chicks (aren't they cute?)" for more heartwarming chicken moments that’ll surely make you smile. Join the conversation and share your thoughts—after all, we’re all in this whimsical journey together!
Breed differences in chicks!
Welcome to Day 4 of our chick-raising adventure! 🐣 Already, these little feathered friends are showing off their unique personalities, and it’s a wild ride! Our Barred Rocks are strutting around like they own the place—are they always this bold, or did we accidentally score a couple of roosters? Meanwhile, the Brahmas are the chillest of the bunch, but is their docility something to worry about? And then there are the Azures, who seem to have a flair for the dramatic! Are they just naturally flighty, or do they think I’m a giant chicken? With five more chicks joining the flock soon, I’m curious about the best way to introduce them. Join the cluck-tastic discussion and share your insights!
Pullet or Cockerel?
Is it a pullet or a cockerel? This age-old conundrum is front and center for our friend ChaseyPorter, who’s got an 8-week-old Black Copper Marans with a big red comb and waddle that has everyone scratching their heads. Given that this feathered friend is developing these traits much earlier than the rest of the crew, it’s time to dive into the delightful world of chicken gender identification. With one rooster already strutting around in the mix, it’s crucial to figure out if this little one is destined to join the ranks of the crowing crew or keep things a bit quieter. And if you’re wrestling with similar dilemmas, check out our article "Newbie owner - frustrated with food and water jugs" for more cluck-tastic tips!
Guess I'm the new momma now
Guess what? It looks like we’ve got a new momma in the coop! Submitted by /u/The_Lake_Now_Feels, this post is all about the delightful chaos of stepping into the role of a chicken caretaker. Whether you’re a seasoned feathered friend aficionado or just starting your journey, there’s always something egg-citing about welcoming new chicks to the family! If you’re curious about identifying breeds or how to care for your growing flock, don’t miss our article "Help me identify my chicken," where a community member shares their experience with a young blue-breasted brown leghorn. Join the conversation and let’s share some cluck-tastic tips and tales about our beloved chickens!
Lav Orpington help
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! It sounds like you’ve got quite the feathered family, and your Lavender Orpington is definitely the tiny standout of the bunch! While it’s adorable to have a little sweetheart like her, it’s understandable to be concerned when she seems to be sitting a lot. Chickens can be quirky creatures, and sometimes size can play a role in their behavior. As long as she’s eating and drinking well, that’s a great sign! However, if you're worried, it might be worth checking out our article, “Why is one of my baby chickens not growing?” for some insights. Remember, every chicken has its own personality, so let’s keep an eye on her and celebrate her unique charm!
Do my fellow chicken owners relate or have anything to add? 🤢 #KrissysChickens #PetChickens
Hey, fellow chicken owners! Do you ever find yourself in a clucking conundrum or just laughing at the antics of your feathered friends? 🤢 Whether you're dealing with the chaos of naming your new nine chicks or pondering the mysterious behaviors that come with chicken ownership, we want to hear from you! It’s all about sharing experiences and support in our quirky chicken community. If you’re navigating the ups and downs of chicken life, you’re not alone! In fact, check out the heartfelt story about “Drumstick gets stronger every day 💕” to find some inspiration and camaraderie. Let’s chat! What’s your take on the wild world of pet chickens? #KrissysChickens #PetChickens
My almost 4 month old buff Orpington rooster (my first rooster ever) crowing for the first time 🥹❤️ I could cry
Prepare for an egg-citing moment that will tug at your heartstrings! 🥹❤️ Meet the adorable buff Orpington rooster, crowing for the very first time at almost four months old. This milestone marks a special chapter for /u/MMantisshrimpp, who is experiencing the joys and quirks of having a rooster for the first time. It’s a moment that brings a teary-eyed smile, reminding us of the magical bond we share with our feathered friends. If you’re curious about other chicken adventures, don’t miss “Say hi to Domingo,” where /u/milkedbarista introduces us to another charming rooster. Join the conversation and share in the love (and occasional chaos) that comes with raising chickens! 🐔✨
The Undertaker is incredulous of her portrait
The Undertaker’s incredulity over her portrait is a delightful twist that has left fans buzzing with laughter and curiosity. Imagine a figure known for her dark persona, suddenly confronted with an image that defies all expectations—it's enough to make anyone chuckle! This unexpected moment resonates with those who appreciate the whimsy of life, reminding us that even the most serious characters can have their light-hearted moments. If you’re intrigued by the playful side of personality clashes, don’t miss “Smol lil guy,” submitted by u/WillagerEGG, which captures another amusing encounter in the world of quirky characters. Dive into the comments and join the conversation as we celebrate the hilarity of life’s surprises!
Say hi to Domingo
Say hi to Domingo, a delightful addition to the flock that’s sure to capture your heart! Submitted by /u/milkedbarista, this post celebrates the quirks and charm of our feathered friends, showcasing the joy they bring to our lives. Chickens are more than just clucking companions; they can be the source of endless amusement and occasional chaos. If you’re curious about the personalities of your own flock, check out “What are your chicken names?” to get some inspiration on naming those feathery little characters. Join the fun, share your thoughts, and let’s cluck about our shared chicken adventures in the comments! Feathered friends unite! [link] [comments]
I got babies!
Exciting news, chicken lovers! It’s a cluck-tastic moment as we welcome new babies to the flock! This is my first time allowing a mama hen to take the reins, and I can’t help but feel a whirlwind of emotions—joy, curiosity, and a hint of anxiety. My only concern? The nesting box is perched about three feet off the ground, which has me wondering how those little fluffballs will manage their first steps! If you’re interested in the wild world of chick rearing, you might want to check out “The Undertaker is incredulous of her portrait,” submitted by /u/ScoochSnail, for some unexpected insights. Join me on this journey as we navigate the ups and downs of motherhood in the coop!
I always stop to say hi to this neighbor's chicken when out for walks. She makes this noise and comes up to me. Is she happy?
Ever find yourself stopping mid-walk to say hi to a neighbor’s chicken? Well, you’re not alone! In a suburban setting, it’s quite the treat when a feathered friend comes to greet you. When you approach the fence and that chicken makes her unique noise, it’s likely her way of saying, “Hey there, friend!” Chickens can be quite social, and if she’s not puffed up or skittish, she’s probably feeling comfortable and curious about your presence. This delightful interaction reminds us of the quirky connections we can form with our feathered pals. If you’re curious about more chicken antics, check out “Say hi to Domingo,” where another enthusiast shares their charming chicken encounters.
Mom's back is my playground
In "Mom's Back is My Playground," we dive into the delightful chaos of parenting a future athlete, as Runaround Sue navigates the energetic antics of her spirited little one. This heartwarming tale captures the whimsical moments that transform everyday life into a playground of laughter, challenges, and unforgettable memories. With a playful tone that resonates with anyone who's ever felt the joyful exhaustion of chasing after a lively child, Sue shares her journey of balancing playtime and parenting responsibilities. If you’re curious about the quirks of chicken ownership, don’t miss our related article, "A rant about culling," where we explore the often humorous frustrations of managing a flock. Join the conversation and discover the joy in both parenting and poultry!
Is my rooster ugly
Is your rooster the belle of the barnyard ball, or is he facing a clucking conundrum of perceived ugliness? Submitted by /u/Grouchy_Look_4580, this heartfelt inquiry brings us into the whimsical world of poultry pride. While you might see the beauty in your gentle giant—a Midnight Blue Marans with an impressive stature—others might not share your vision. Fear not, as love for our feathered friends often trumps the opinions of onlookers. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder! If you're curious about the joys of raising chickens, check out "I got babies!" for some egg-citing insights into nurturing those adorable little ones. Let’s dive into the quirks of rooster appreciation together!