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.

Why is one of my baby chickens not growing?
Is one of your baby chickens lagging behind in the growth department? You’re not alone in this clucky conundrum! Many chicken enthusiasts have faced this feathered mystery, and it can be as bewildering as a game of fowl hide-and-seek. Factors like genetics, diet, and environmental conditions can all affect a chick’s growth. If your little one seems to be chickening out of growing up, don’t fret! We’ll explore the possible reasons behind this growth hiccup and offer some egg-citing solutions to help your feathered friend thrive. And while you’re at it, check out our article, "I got babies!" for more insights on nurturing those adorable chicks. Let's dive into the delightful world of chicken growth together!

Do chickens lay more than once a day?
Ever wondered if chickens can lay more than one egg a day? You're not alone! Recently, I found myself in a clucking conundrum when I gathered up all the eggs from my five feathered friends. To my surprise, only Hey-Hey contributed an egg, while the rest seemed to be taking a break. This quirky situation sparked my curiosity about the egg-laying habits of chickens. Do they really have a limit, or is it just a funky phase? If you've had similar experiences, I’d love to hear about them! For more insights, check out our article, "The Obvious Question," where we dive into the mysteries of chicken behavior and egg production. Join the conversation—let’s crack this mystery together!
i need help retrieving a 3 week old chick
Oh no, the infamous “favorite chick curse” strikes again! Losing a tiny bantam chick can feel like a real-life game of hide-and-seek—one that’s definitely got your heart racing. First off, take a deep breath; you’re not alone in this chicken escapade! It sounds like your little feathered friend has found herself in a cozy hideout under the porch deck, but don’t worry; there are ways to coax her back. Try calling her name softly—chickens can be quite curious, especially when they hear familiar voices. And if you haven’t already, scattering some treats near her last known spot might just do the trick!

The Obvious Question
Meet Buff Orpington, our feathered friend who’s about to turn 9 weeks old tomorrow! We’re pretty sure our flock of eight is all hens, thanks to their rounded saddle feathers, small pale combs, and lack of spur growth. However, Buff stands out with a slightly redder comb and a more disheveled saddle than her sisters. While I'm leaning towards hen for Buff, I can’t help but wonder if I’m lucky enough to have a full flock of hens in this straight run! If you’re as curious as I am, check out our article “Chick set number one,” where we dive into the delightful chaos of new chicks. And hey, ignore my poke-and-stick tattoo – it’s a story for another day!

How long til the color is gone?
Have you ever found yourself wondering how long that vibrant dye on your chick will last? If you bought a green-dyed chick just two weeks ago, you’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find the colorful little fluff balls both charming and perplexing. The dye is usually non-toxic and designed to fade over time, but just how long does it take? While some folks might be in a rush to see their feathered friend return to its natural hues, others might enjoy the temporary splash of color. For more insights on caring for your quirky companions, check out our article, "Breed differences in chicks!": Day 4 of keeping these guys alive! 🐣.

My baby’s
Meet the newest additions to the chicken-loving community—our little feathered friends are currently enjoying life in a cozy cardboard box! While they might be living the simple life for now, plans are in motion for a fabulous new home that’s sure to be egg-citing. As they grow, they'll soon trade their temporary digs for something more fitting for their quirky personalities. If you’re curious about chicken development, you might enjoy checking out “Help me identify my chicken,” where fellow enthusiasts share their experiences in identifying and caring for their feathered companions. Join us in celebrating these adorable chicks as they take their first steps into the world, and let’s cluck our way through this journey together!

What breed of chicken is this? Thanks
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken breeds! If you're pondering, "What breed of chicken is this?" you're in the right place. Here, we’ll unravel the mystery of your feathered friend, exploring their unique traits and quirks that make them truly cluck-tastic. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the delightful chaos of poultry parenting, we’ve got you covered. And while you're here, don't miss our article on "Why is one of my baby chickens not growing?"—it’s packed with insights that might just ruffle your feathers in a good way! Let’s dive into the delightful world of chickens and uncover the secrets behind your flock!

These last 2 years have thrown challenges at me that I didn’t think I could survive - my TJ girl helped give me strength 🖤
Life can throw some serious curveballs, and the last two years have been no exception for many of us. For one user, the love and companionship of their TJ girl—a beloved chicken—provided the strength to navigate through tough times. 🖤 It's a heartwarming reminder of how our feathered friends can support us when we need it most. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by challenges, you’re not alone! You might also enjoy reading “Hen and the lil chicks (aren’t they cute?)” submitted by /u/LULZmaster1, which showcases the joy and laughter that chickens can bring into our lives. Let’s celebrate the quirky bonds we share with our fowl pals and find strength in their company!

Coloring/genetics question
Hey there, chicken enthusiasts! If you're scratching your heads over feather patterns, you’re not alone. One curious member of our flock, Tayrex_o_O, has a couple of 2-week-old bantam cochins and is wondering if these little chicks might go from their current patterns to a solid buff. Is it possible for them to lose their penciling entirely, or will those charming patterns stick around? It’s a question that plagues many chicken lovers! To dive deeper into the world of feather genetics and color variations, check out our article, "Lav Orpington help," where we tackle related chick conundrums. Let’s unravel the mysteries of our feathered friends together and embrace the joy of chicken-keeping!
A rant about culling
Oh, the cluck-tastrophe that is culling! I’m feeling pretty ruffled by my family's decision to tackle our rooster dilemma. With four roosters running amok, two have turned into greedy, feathered bullies — not exactly the kind of flock we want! My mom is adamant about getting rid of them, but guess who’s left holding the (chicken) bag? Yep, me! Not only am I juggling my actual job and feeling the weight of procrastination, but I’m also wrestling with the emotional side of this whole culling process. I’ve done it before, but that last one still haunts my thoughts. If you’re feeling similarly overwhelmed, you might find comfort in our article, “Breed differences in chicks!” Let’s keep this conversation going and support each other!

Smol lil guy
Meet the "smol lil guy," submitted by the ever-enthusiastic u/WillagerEGG! This adorable little chicken captures the heart with its pint-sized charm and playful antics. Whether you're a seasoned chicken wrangler or someone who finds themselves chickening out, this feathery friend is sure to bring a smile to your face. Chickens like this remind us of the joy and hilarity that come with chicken-keeping. If you’re looking for more heartwarming tales of our feathered pals, check out the article “Hen and the lil chicks (aren’t they cute?)” for a delightful dive into the world of adorable chicks. Join us in celebrating the whimsical quirks of our beloved chickens and the laughter they bring into our lives!

Hen and the lil chicks (arent they cute?)
Get ready for an egg-citing adventure with Hen and her adorable lil' chicks! Submitted by the ever-entertaining /u/LULZmaster1, this delightful piece showcases the irresistible charm of these feathered friends. Aren't they just the cutest? As we dive into this fluffy tale, you'll find yourself chuckling at the antics of these tiny birds while also appreciating the tender moments that come with chicken parenting. And if you’re eager for more clucking good content, don’t miss out on "Mom's back is my playground," where Runaround Sue navigates the challenges of raising a future athlete among her lively brood. Join us in celebrating the whimsical world of chickens — it’s bound to make you smile!

Mom and chicks jump start the day
Kickstart your morning with a delightful glimpse into the world of a momma hen and her adorable chicks! In this heartwarming moment, captured by /u/380Coop, watch as these fluffy little bundles of joy embark on their day, full of curiosity and clucking adventures. Silkies, known for their unique personalities and feathered charm, are truly a sight to behold. As they navigate their surroundings, you can't help but smile at their playful antics. If you're curious about the quirky dynamics of chicken life, be sure to check out "Piggy Back Rides," where one adventurous chick takes her love for mom to new heights. Join us in celebrating these feathered friends and the joy they bring to our lives!

4 week old Seramas
Meet the charming world of 4-week-old Seramas, the pint-sized wonders of the chicken universe! At this age, these delightful feathered friends are bursting with personality and cuteness, ready to take on the world with their quirky antics. Known for their compact size and playful nature, Seramas are perfect for both seasoned chicken enthusiasts and those who find themselves chickening out at the thought of raising poultry. As they strut their stuff, they’ll keep you entertained and perhaps a little bemused. Curious about coloring and genetics? Check out our article, "Coloring/genetics question," where the community tackles your burning questions! Embrace the joy and madness of raising Seramas, and let the cluck-tastic adventure begin!
Fox attack
This morning, our feathered friends faced a shocking encounter when a fox launched an attack while they were safely caged in their run. One brave chicken had her tail feathers nearly yanked out—leaving her with just one remaining! While she’s a little ruffled, we’re concerned about her overall condition. The area looks quite red and tender, and we’re unsure if there’s any additional damage to her anatomy that warrants attention. As I try to clean her up—foam bubbles included—I'm reaching out to the community for insights and reassurance. If you’ve ever wondered about the differences between pullets and cockerels, check out our article “Pullet or Cockerel?” for some fun facts! Thanks for your help!

ID help :)
Looking to identify your new feathered friends? You’re in good company! Berry-bitchflakes just added a few chicks to their flock, but with a mix-up at the store, they’re not sure what breeds they brought home. While the employee mentioned a blend of breeds, Berry-bitchflakes is just thrilled to welcome these little ones into the family. If you have any breed identification tips, your expertise would be greatly appreciated! And for those curious about baby chicks, don’t miss the article "Help me identify my chicken," where others share their own chick conundrums and growth stories. Let’s celebrate this egg-citing journey together! 🐥✨

What are these long legged fellas called?
What are these long-legged fellas called? If you've ever found yourself gazing in wonder (or maybe a bit of fear) at the tall, gangly birds strutting around your yard or the farm, you're in good company! These feathered friends often leave us scratching our heads, but don't worry—we’re here to help you decipher their quirky charm. From their unique personalities to their sometimes erratic behavior, chickens can be a delightful yet puzzling addition to any backyard flock. If you're curious about the sounds they make or how to tell their genders, check out our article "Que signifie ce bruit?" for a deeper dive into the fascinating world of chicken communication. Join the fun as we explore the whimsical life of our long-legged companions!

I wanna brag a little bit, so be nice ha.
Feeling a little proud and wanting to share a cluck-tastic accomplishment? Well, you’re in good company! One adventurous parent, u/Boss_Hoss90, dove headfirst into chicken-keeping after their daughter expressed a desire for these feathered friends. In a delightful twist of fate (and perhaps a dash of whimsy), they transformed a shipping crate from work into a cozy coop for their new avian companions. While it may not be a picture-perfect palace, the pride in this DIY project shines through. Let's celebrate the quirky, often chaotic journey of chicken ownership together! If you're curious about free-ranging your flock, check out our article "Free range tips" for insights that'll keep your chickens happy and healthy.

What are your chicken names? I haven’t named my 9 yet, I think I can tell who’s a rooster and hen so I’m ready to get them named up now!
Naming your chickens can be as egg-citing as watching them strut around the yard! If you’re just getting to know your nine new feathered friends and have a handle on who the roosters and hens are, it’s time to unleash your creativity. Whether you’re feeling whimsical or want to pay homage to their quirky personalities, naming can be a fun way to bond with your flock. From punny names that get a giggle to heartfelt choices that reflect their unique traits, the possibilities are endless. Plus, if you’re looking for inspiration, check out “Drumstick gets stronger every day 💕” for some delightful insights into chicken names and personalities. Let’s dive into the cluck-tastic world of chicken naming together!

Observation / question regarding behavior and ovarian cancer
In the whimsical world of chicken-keeping, it’s always a cluck-tastic adventure—until it takes a heartbreaking turn. One of our community members, u/IllegalGeriatricVore, recently faced the tough reality of ovarian cancer in their flock. After losing a feisty bully and now dealing with another diagnosed hen, they’re left wondering if there's a pattern in these behaviors before illness strikes. Has anyone else noticed similar trends among their feathered friends? This is an important conversation, as understanding our chickens' health can lead to better care. If you're curious about chicken personalities, you might enjoy our piece on chicken names, where fellow enthusiasts share their naming adventures. Join the discussion and let’s uncover these mysteries together!

Drumstick gets stronger everyday 💕
Meet Drumstick, our feathered friend who's getting stronger every day! Submitted by the wonderful /u/SatanikRaccoon, this uplifting update showcases the resilience and charm of chickens that we all adore (or fear, let’s be real). Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who just finds these clucky critters amusing, Drumstick's journey is sure to warm your heart. Speaking of heartwarming experiences, don’t miss our article on "POOL DAY for the Chickens" where our feathered pals beat the heat in style. So, grab a comfy seat and dive into Drumstick's inspiring growth — it’s egg-citing to see how our feathered friends can surprise us every day! 🐔💕

Barbu d’Uccle Hen
Meet the charming Barbu d’Uccle hen, a feathered friend painted with love and whimsy, showcasing the delightful characteristics that make this breed so special. Done in vibrant acrylics, this artwork captures the essence of these fancy little chickens, known for their unique appearance and playful personalities. If you’re a fan of extraordinary poultry, you’ll want to dive into Stephen Green-Armytage’s book, *Extraordinary Chickens*, which is a treasure trove of stunning avian portraits. For those who are just starting their chicken-keeping journey, check out the article “Got our first chicks!!!!” for some cluck-tastic inspiration. Join the fun and embrace the quirks of chicken life—your feathered friends are waiting for you! 🐓

Got our first chicks!!!!
Cluck-tastic news, everyone! Our community is buzzing with excitement as /u/Informal_Hornet_4502 shares the adorable arrival of their very first chicks! 🐣 This moment is a delightful rite of passage for any chicken enthusiast, filled with the promise of feathered friends and egg-citing adventures ahead. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just dipping your toes into the world of poultry parenting, there's something truly magical about watching these tiny fluffballs grow. And if you're curious about the bonds that form during hatching, check out “I can't lie, I definitely have a favorite from this hatching” for a peek into the love-hate dynamics of chick ownership. Join the conversation and share in the joy of these little wonders!
Egg bound chicken
Oh no! It sounds like you’ve encountered the dreaded egg-bound situation with your hen. These moments can be quite stressful for both feathered friends and their humans. It’s great that you’ve already taken steps like giving her a warm bath and using coconut oil to help her along. Sometimes, a little extra TLC can work wonders! While she’s trying her best to push that egg out, you might also want to keep her hydrated and comfortable. If you’re looking for more tips, check out our article, “Please Help Me ID This Chick!” for some community insights. Remember, you’re not alone in this clucky conundrum—many chicken lovers have been in your shoes, and together we can find the best solutions for our beloved birds!