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.
HELP!! I'm a mail carrier with two boxes of baby chick's with no home!
HELP!! A mail carrier in Cleveland, Ohio, found himself in a feathery pickle when two boxes of baby chicks went unclaimed by their new homes. After 24 hours of waiting for signatures, he delivered one box containing parakeets — surprise! The second box returned to the post office, where the tiny turkeys were kept cozy with a space heater. Thankfully, they are now safe at home, enjoying their new digs while awaiting a permanent residence. With turkey crumbles and fresh water at the ready, this duo is doing their best to care for their unexpected guests. If you ever wonder about chicken quirks, check out our article on “Chicken makes weird movements with neck. And is not breathing normal.

New chick!!!
Exciting news from the coop! I lifted up my girl Hashbrown to check on her eggs—she wasn’t supposed to be on lockdown just yet—and to my surprise, a little chick popped out to say, “Hello, world!” Welcome to the family, little one! While we still have a couple of days until the rest of the eggs are due to hatch, I’m eagerly watching and hoping for more feathery friends. This is my first time letting Hashbrown incubate, so I’d love to hear any tips from fellow chicken enthusiasts. If you're looking for more coop adventures, check out "Rose and Mama Serama" for some delightful chicken tales! Let’s cluck together on this egg-citing journey!

Chicken makes weird movements with neck. And is not breathing normal.
Is your feathered friend acting a bit peculiar with those neck movements and struggling to breathe normally? It sounds like you’re dealing with a respiratory mystery that’s got everyone scratching their heads. With gurgling sounds and occasional coughs, it’s understandable to feel concerned, especially after a course of amoxicillin and now doxycycline. While it’s great to hear that your chicken has gained weight and improved in other areas, the question remains: could this be a case of gapeworms? It's puzzling, especially since they’re not coughing up mucus or blood. If you’re looking for more insights into chicken health, check out our article "Sick Hen?" for tips on how to handle similar situations. Remember, we’re all in this together, so let’s figure it out!

What do you guys think? Is this chick a peewee or peeweiner? (We named them peewee :)
What do you guys think? Is this chick a peewee or a peeweiner? We’ve affectionately named them Peewee, and we can’t wait to hear your thoughts! Chickens have a way of capturing our hearts (and sometimes our sanity), and Peewee is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who finds themselves chickening out at the sight of these feathered friends, we invite you to join the conversation. If you’re curious about other quirky chicken stories, check out our article “I’ve been calling her peenie weenie so much she now thinks it’s her name 😭 she’s named Peewee (sound)” — it’s a delightful read that’s sure to make you chuckle! Let’s dive into Peewee’s destiny together!

My first fairy egg! 🥹 Any ideas on what to do with it?
Oh, the excitement of discovering your very first fairy egg! 🥹 This tiny treasure is not just adorable; it's a delightful surprise that can inspire all sorts of creative ideas. Whether you're considering it for a special recipe, a whimsical decoration, or even a quirky addition to your chicken coop, the possibilities are egg-citing! If you’re unsure what to do with it, why not check out our article on "Chicken hatching"? It might just give you some insights into the magical journey of eggs and hatching. Remember, every little egg tells a story, and this one is sure to spark joy and curiosity. So, what will you do with your feathered friend’s tiny masterpiece? Let the cluck-tastic brainstorming begin!
🐔 98° in Phoenix… POOL DAY for the Chickens! 😎💦
🐔 It’s a sizzling 98° in Phoenix, and you know what that means—it’s time for a pool day with our feathered friends! 😎💦 Chickens may not be the best swimmers, but they sure know how to enjoy a splash on a hot day. Whether they’re wading in shallow waters or simply cooling off in the shade, these quirky creatures bring a whole new meaning to “chillin’ with the flock.” If you’re wondering how to keep your chickens cool or if they’re acting a bit strange in the heat, check out our article “Help: One of my chicks' eyes keeps becoming like this; what should I do?” for some helpful tips! Let’s dive into summer fun with our cluck-tastic companions!
How to "phase out" of chicken ownership?
Phasing out of chicken ownership after 30 years can feel like a cluck-tastic conundrum, especially with your beloved aging flock! As you ponder the future, you’re faced with heart-tugging questions: Should you let your hens live out their golden years with you, or is it time to find them new homes? The good news is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. You might consider a gradual approach, allowing your hens to enjoy their remaining days while you assess your comfort level with fewer birds. If you’re curious about the complexities of chicken care, check out “HELP!! I'm a mail carrier with two boxes of baby chicks with no home!” for some light-hearted insight. Embrace this transition with humor and heart—you've earned it!
Had my first bear attack last night.
Last night was a wild ride for me and my feathered friends! Around 9 PM, my trusty Pyrenees, Miss Pearl, sounded the alarm about an intruder. With heart racing, I grabbed my spotlight to check the coop, only to find it flipped on its side and the door ripped off like a paper towel. Talk about a cluck-tastrophe! Armed with my rifle, I fired off a few shots, hoping to scare away the beast. To my relief, a bear dashed into the woods, and not a single one of my girls was lost—thank goodness for that! Now, I’m curious: what do you fine folks do to ward off predators? I’m thinking of hanging some pots and pans around the enclosure for extra noise. Any tips?

Two Chickens One Nesting Box
Why settle for just one cozy nesting box when two chickens can share the fun? In the delightful world of our feathered friends, the idea of snuggling into a single nesting box can spark a little clucking chaos and a lot of charm! Join us as we explore the quirks of chicken camaraderie, where the warmth of shared space creates a comical yet heartwarming scene. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just a curious chicken enthusiast, you'll find joy in the antics of these clever cluckers. Plus, don't miss our related article, "Peek-a-boo," where we catch a sneak peek of a charming chick face on camera. Let’s dive into the whimsical world of chickens and their nesting shenanigans!

Snug some chicks under Margootje
Meet Margootje, the nurturing mama hen of our quirky flock! After moving in with her sister Henna a year ago, these feathered friends quickly became inseparable, with Margootje taking on the role of caretaker. When she went broody, we decided to surprise her for Mother's Day with two tiny chicks—Peewee and her little sibling. We snugged them under Margootje in the middle of the night, and her joy was palpable! As she embraced her new responsibilities, we made sure to supervise interactions with the other hens, especially Henna, who initially felt left out. Now, our delightful quartet is living their best lives, soaking up the joys of spring. Curious about the latest antics? Check out “What do you guys think?

What type of chicken is this?
What a cluck-tastic surprise! A Guinea hen has just waltzed into your yard, and it seems to have taken a liking to your chickens! How wild is that? You might be scratching your head, wondering where this feathered friend popped up from—especially since Guinea fowl aren’t exactly the most common sight in New England. Perhaps it’s a wandering soul from a nearby farm, or maybe it just decided your yard looked like a fun place to hang out. Your chickens might be playing it cool, but it sounds like this unexpected guest could be stirring up a bit of karma for any past fowl critiques! If you’re curious about Guinea fowl age, check out our article "Rough estimate on age?" for some insights!

Chicken nail loss
Chickens are truly our feathered friends, but sometimes they face unexpected challenges—like nail loss! If you've noticed your clucky companion missing a nail or two, don’t panic. This can happen for various reasons, from rough play with their pals to pesky environmental factors. Understanding the cause is essential to ensuring your chicken’s well-being and keeping those feet healthy. In this article, submitted by the ever-curious u/Financial-Depth-2209, we’ll dive into the potential reasons behind chicken nail loss, how to treat it, and when to seek help. And if you’re also wondering about your chicks’ grit needs, check out our article on whether they can just get grit from dirt. Let's keep those little feet happy and healthy!
Can my chicks just get grit from dirt or do I really need to buy it
Are your little chicks having a blast pecking at tiny rocks in their dust bath? It sounds like they’re on the right track! But the big question is whether dirt and wood ash are enough grit for those growing gizzards, or if chick grit is a must-have expense. While your two-week-old feathered friends might enjoy their makeshift grit buffet, it’s essential to know if they’re truly getting what they need for digestion. As you ponder whether to splurge on commercial grit, consider that a little knowledge can go a long way in chick care. If you're curious about other chicken quirks, check out the article about the “bald spot” issue, where we dive into common concerns that other chicken owners face!

Protesters and Supporters gather near Psycho Sharons holding cell
In a cluck-tastic display of sisterly solidarity, protesters and supporters gathered near Psycho Sharon’s holding cell, marking the second day of silence from her egg-laying sisters. Normally a carefree crew demanding treats, today they assembled outside the pool area with a mission: to express their discontent over Sharon’s recent antics. With darting glances and occasional squawking outbursts, the feathered friends seemed unified in their disdain—except for that one chicken who was clearly daydreaming. The matriarch, Jackie, voiced her frustrations, threatening a feathery showdown upon Sharon’s release. Meanwhile, Psycho Sharon herself remained unfazed, tossing her food container with prehistoric squawks. For more on the emotional rollercoaster of chicken life, check out our article, "🐔 98° in Phoenix… POOL DAY for the Chickens! 😎💦."
Found this chick at my house last night
Oh, the delightful mystery of suburban chicken encounters! It sounds like you’ve stumbled upon a cluck-tastic little guest! Since you’ve got this adorable chick, it’s important to know that while they can be independent, they do thrive with a friend. Chickens are social birds and having a buddy can help ease any loneliness (and potential drama) in their tiny hearts. As for nighttime? Creating a cozy, safe space outside is key—just ensure it’s secure against any nighttime mischief. If you’re concerned about your parrots and bird flu, consider a well-ventilated coop. And if you’re curious about how to care for a single chick, check out our article “Sick Hen?” for some insightful tips! Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken parenting!
Sick Hen?
Meet Nader, our free-range gal who’s usually the life of the coop! At just over a year old, she’s known for her adventurous spirit—so much so that she’s taken to roaming the ditches, even during pouring rain and tornado sirens! But today, something seems off. While she was strutting her stuff just yesterday, she’s now staying put in the coop, looking lethargic and allowing rare pets (a true sign something’s not right). No visible injuries are apparent, but her sudden change has us scratching our heads. Could a sickness hit her that quickly? If you’ve ever faced a similar situation with your feathered friends, or if you want to dive deeper into chicken care, check out our article on "Chicken nail loss" for more insights!

Chicken can’t walk
It sounds like you’re dealing with a cluck-tastrophe! When a chicken struggles to walk and seems to lack balance, it can be concerning. While she’s still eating, drinking, and pooping—good signs—there could be a few reasons behind her wobbliness. Possible culprits include nutritional deficiencies, an inner ear infection, or even a neurological issue. It’s important to observe her behavior closely and consider consulting a vet if her condition doesn’t improve. In the meantime, check out our article "Bald Spot" for insights on other common chicken concerns. Remember, your feathered friend deserves all the love and care, so let’s figure this out together!

Bald Spot
Meet Bald Spot, the hen with a mysterious case of belly baldness! If you're scratching your head wondering why your feathered friend is sporting these patches, you're not alone. It’s quite common for hens to experience feather loss for various reasons, even without a rooster in the mix. Factors like molting, stress, or even a little fowl play among the flock can lead to these bare patches. Interestingly, you mentioned another hen with the same situation—could it be a case of chicken camaraderie? If you’re eager to learn more about your hens’ behaviors and needs, check out our article, "Chicken Hatching," where we dive into the quirks of chick life. Let’s unravel this feathered mystery together!

Rose and Mama Serama
Meet Rose and Mama Serama, the delightful duo that brings a sprinkle of joy to every chicken enthusiast's life! Rose, with her quirky personality, and Mama Serama, the ever-watchful hen, create a charming dynamic that showcases the whimsical side of chicken keeping. Their playful antics and endearing relationship remind us why we adore our feathered friends, even when they ruffle our feathers a bit. If you're in the mood for a chuckle, check out the article "Had a visitor last night in the coop" for more cluck-tastic escapades from the coop. Join us as we dive into the heartwarming journey of Rose and Mama Serama, where every day is an egg-citing adventure!

Picked up some old chicken home decor from local Buy Nothing group and repainted them as portraits of a few of our girls 💕
Get ready to cluck with joy! Our fellow chicken enthusiast, /u/Ruffffian, has transformed some charming old chicken home decor into delightful portraits of their beloved feathered friends. It’s a heartwarming reminder that creativity and love for our girls can come together in the most whimsical ways. Plus, what better way to celebrate our poultry pals than with some personalized art? If you're also pondering whether your little one is a hen or a roo, check out our article, "Is my baby a hen or roo?" for some fun insights. Dive into the cluck-tastic world of chicken-loving creativity and share your own quirky chicken tales with our community! 💕 [link] [comments]

Muffin Recipe!
Alright y’all! You asked for it, and here it is—my cluck-tastic morning muffin recipe! What started as a pancake experiment turned into a bulk-baking dream, perfect for freezing and feeding my feathered friends. These muffins are not just a treat; they’re packed with health-boosting ingredients, from bright orange yolks to chili flakes that add a little kick! With just a mix of eggs, almond flour, pumpkin, and some other fowl-tastic ingredients, you’ll whip up a batch that keeps your chickens happy and healthy. Plus, you can customize them to your heart's content! If you're curious about recognizing your chicks, check out our article "Is my baby a hen or roo?" for more insights. Let’s get baking!

Hen or Roo?
Is it a hen or a roo? That’s the million-dollar question, and our friend /u/jhftc100 is back with another chicken conundrum! After previously posting about this feathered friend, they're seeking your expert opinions on whether their 9-week-old chicken is a boy or a girl. Sold as an Easter Egger pullet, we all know the surprises that can come with these colorful cuties! While our chicken parent is holding out hope for a hen, the suspense is palpable. If you’re curious about other chicken adventures, check out "My Sweet Missy and Sheldon," a heartwarming tale about some lively leghorns. Let’s cluck our way through this together and help /u/jhftc100 figure out this delightful dilemma!

Baby Buff frolicking in the flowers 💐
Get ready for some cluck-tastic cuteness! In this delightful post, we’re spotlighting an adorable Baby Buff frolicking in a field of flowers, submitted by the talented /u/Lillrw. Just imagine those tiny, fluffy feet bouncing among the blooms—pure joy for any chicken lover! This little one is a perfect reminder of the whimsical charm that our feathered friends bring to our lives. If you're curious about more chick adventures, check out our article, "What do you guys think? Is this chick a peewee or peeweiner?" for a fun dive into the world of pint-sized poultry. Join us in celebrating the hilarity and heartwarming moments that make chicken keeping such an egg-citing journey! 💐🐥

Had a visitor last night in the coop
Last night, the coop had an unexpected visitor, and you won't believe what happened! Submitted by our friend /u/Domphotog, this cheeky encounter is a delightful reminder that life with our feathered friends is always full of surprises. Whether you're a seasoned chicken whisperer or someone who occasionally chickens out at the sight of these clucky creatures, we can all relate to the amusing antics that can unfold in the coop. Be sure to check out the comments for some hilarious reactions and insights! And if you're curious about our feathered friends, don’t miss our article, "What type of chicken is this?"—it’s a cluck-tastic read! Join the conversation and let's celebrate the quirky charm of chicken life together!