chickens
chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 2943 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 Your Chickens Lay Thin-Shelled Eggs (And How to Fix It)
Are your feathered friends laying eggs that seem thinner than a pancake? Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this cluck-tastrophe! Thin-shelled eggs can be a common concern for chicken owners, and understanding the reasons behind this issue is the first step toward a solution. Factors such as diet, age, and health can all play a role in egg shell quality. But fear not! With a little knowledge and some egg-citing adjustments, you can help your chickens produce stronger, healthier eggs. Join us as we explore the quirky world of chicken egg production, uncovering the mysteries of thin shells and providing practical tips to get your hens back on track. Let’s dive into the fascinating (and sometimes fowl) reasons behind those fragile eggs!
11 week old pullet acting strange
Hey, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you're experiencing a bit of a cluck-tastrophe with your 11-week-old naked neck pullet. When our feathered friends start acting a little off, it can definitely ruffle our feathers! Your description of her being puffed up and withdrawn is concerning, especially since she’s usually the skittish one. While it’s great that you’re keeping an eye on her vent and noticed her straining, it's wise to seek professional help, and finding a vet is a fantastic step. In the meantime, let’s rally together! Have any of you experienced similar behavior with your chickens? Share your insights or recommendations, and let’s help this worried chicken parent figure out how to get their pullet back to her playful self!
Help! How'd my chicken die like this? (NSFW, no gore/blood, dead chicken depicted)
Have you ever found yourself scratching your head, wondering, “Help! How'd my chicken die like this?” You’re not alone! In this cluck-tastic post, submitted by the ever-curious /u/Wr0ngNum83r-TryAga1n, we dive into the puzzling world of poultry mortality with a light-hearted twist. While the sight of a deceased chicken might send shivers down your spine, fear not! This discussion isn’t about gore or the grim; instead, we’ll explore the whimsical yet relatable mishaps that can lead to such unfortunate events. Join us as we unravel the mystery, share our experiences, and perhaps even find humor in the quirks of chicken keeping. After all, our feathered friends often lead us on the most unexpected adventures!
Waterbelly not draining
If you've ever faced the perplexing challenge of a chicken with waterbelly, you're not alone! I recently thought my feathered friend was eggbound, giving her Epsom salt baths and hoping for the best. After realizing she was still going to the bathroom normally and there was no egg to be found, I did some digging and discovered she has waterbelly. Yesterday, I managed to drain about 20 milliliters from her, but when I tried again today, she didn’t cooperate. Instead of relief, I encountered a bit of a hiccup—nothing came out, and I noticed some bleeding. I followed a tutorial carefully, using a 20-gauge needle, but it seems I need to adjust my approach. Let’s unravel this watery mystery together!
Small flock of chickens hate ONE new chicken
Integrating a new chicken into an existing flock can feel like trying to host a dinner party where one guest just can’t get along with anyone else—awkward and a bit chaotic! In this case, Brad-Moon-Rising has taken on the challenge of welcoming a solo chicken after her partner’s passing, but the existing flock isn’t rolling out the welcome mat. Despite a month of quarantine and months of careful introductions, the new chicken faces relentless pecking and bullying, leaving her to constantly run for cover. With ample space in the run and a cozy coop, the hope remains that these feathered friends can eventually find harmony. Let’s explore some creative solutions to help turn this fowl fiasco into a cluck-tastic success!
More chickens!
Hello, fellow chicken enthusiast! It sounds like you’ve got a delightful flock already, with a charming mix of breeds. Expanding your chicken family is egg-citing! Introducing larger breeds can be a bit like a fowl game of musical chairs, especially with your bantams. Generally, larger breeds like Orpingtons and Cochins are known for their gentle demeanor, making them likely candidates for peaceful coexistence. As for egg colors, the Ameraucana is a fantastic choice for those vibrant blue and green eggs! Welsummers will add some lovely dark brown eggs to your collection too. With plenty of space to roam and a cozy shed outfitted for comfort, your feathered friends will surely thrive! Let’s cluck about the best combinations for your growing flock!
Coop size and # of nesting boxes for 18 future hens
Congratulations on your new adventure with 18 feathered friends! It’s amazing how quickly these girls grow, keeping you on your toes. For a coop that measures 6’L x 10’W x 6’H (with a usable height of about 4’), you’re off to a solid start. The general rule of thumb is to provide at least 3-4 square feet of space per hen inside the coop, which your setup can accommodate. With four built-in nesting boxes, you’re also on the right track, as a good ratio is one box for every 3-4 hens. Just remember, ventilation and cleanliness are key to keeping your hens happy and healthy. Good luck, and enjoy the cluck-tastic journey ahead!
Do your chickens run to you?
Do your chickens run to you when you step outside? It’s a heartwarming sight that many chicken owners, like our friend GladStatistician3895, experience. The moment they see you at the door, their excitement is palpable as they scramble toward you with their little feet flapping—and let’s be honest, it’s utterly adorable! This joyful reaction is not just a random quirk; it’s actually a typical flock behavior. Chickens are social creatures, and they quickly learn to associate you with food, safety, and companionship. So, if your feathered friends are racing to greet you, know that they’re showing love in their own clucky way. Join the conversation and share your own experiences with these delightful birds!
All lost
Oh no! It sounds like you’ve had a cluck-tastrophe on your hands, and my heart goes out to you. Losing your beautiful flock of six is absolutely devastating, especially after all the hard work you put in to keep them safe and happy. It’s completely understandable to feel a mix of emotions right now—anger, sadness, and a deep sense of loss. Your husband’s intentions were good, and we all have those moments when life gets overwhelming. It’s great that you’re sharing your story here; it reminds us all how easy it is to let our guard down just once. Your flock was a lovely part of your life, and I’m sending you all the warm wishes to help heal your heart during this tough time.
Why do people on this sub seem to want to take every step except properly securing their chickens?
Why do folks on this sub seem ready to try every trick in the book—except properly securing their chickens? It’s a puzzling trend, with countless posts detailing unfortunate encounters with critters that sneak into unsecured coops or snatch free-range chickens. Many even resort to unconventional methods, like using other birds to scare off predators! Yet, when someone suggests that a solid coop is the key to keeping your feathered friends safe, the backlash can be intense. Why the anger at such a straightforward solution? Perhaps it’s a mix of pride and vulnerability; admitting a lack of security feels like a personal failure. But let’s face it—if your chicken gets got, it’s not just nature’s doing; it’s a wake-up call to beef up those defenses!
Feeling all flashy this Friday with Tiny Tina & my cool chicken claws 💅🏼 🐦⬛
Feeling all flashy this Friday with Tiny Tina and my cool chicken claws! 💅🏼🐦⬛ It’s the perfect time to strut your stuff and embrace your inner chicken enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry pro or just starting to dip your toes (or should we say claws?) into the feathery world, there’s a little magic in every cluck and flap. Tiny Tina is here to remind us that life is too short to take too seriously—especially when it comes to our quirky feathered friends. So, let’s celebrate the fabulousness of chickens and all the joy they bring, with a dash of humor and a sprinkle of whimsy. Join in the fun, and don’t forget to share your own cluck-tastic moments!
A couple weeks ago I posted here about leaving peanuts in the shell for my local grackles so they can protect my chickens from hawks. A few people here were surprised that grackles can bully hawks away. Here’s the video my husband sent me while I was at work.
A couple of weeks ago, I shared my quirky strategy for protecting my chickens from hawks by leaving peanuts in the shell for my local grackles. To my surprise, many of you didn’t know that these feathered friends can actually bully hawks away! It’s a delightful twist in the chicken-keeping saga, blending nature’s humor with a dash of ingenuity. While I was at work, my husband captured a video of this fascinating chicken defense in action. Plus, to keep things organized (and a bit less chaotic), I finally got the grackles their own feeder instead of just tossing peanuts on top of the coop. Curious to see how this unfolds? Check out the video linked below and let’s chat about our feathered friends!
Swollen bottom and eye crusted over
Uh-oh, it sounds like your feathered friend is having a bit of a rough day! When a chicken's eye is crusted over and their backside is caked with poop, it can be quite concerning. You did the right thing by soaking her in warm water with anti-fungal soap and addressing the feather situation. The soft sack you noticed could be a normal part of her anatomy, but it’s always best to keep an eye on anything unusual. Spraying her with a fungal and bacteria infection spray is a good step, and isolating her from the other hens will help prevent any potential spread of illness. Green, runny poop can indicate a dietary issue or infection, so it’s important to monitor her closely.
Free chickens - need to rehome
🐔 **Cluck-tastic Opportunity Alert!** 🐔 My son’s family is seeking a loving home for their feathered friends due to a new town policy on chicken free-ranging in Long Island. They’re rehoming six delightful Orpingtons, known for their egg-citing egg-laying abilities, along with two charming Old English Bantam Game Hens. At just one year old, these chickens are not only friendly and easily handled, but they also have a knack for returning to their run and coop as the sun sets. They’ve braved the winter chill like true champions, thriving without extra heat. If you’re interested, they can be separated for adoption. Plus, the coop and run, designed by Third Coast Craftsman, can be disassembled for transport. Ready to welcome some new feathered friends? 🥚✨
Dutch Bantam Website
Exciting news, fellow chicken enthusiasts! The Dutch Bantam website, dutchbantam.com, is officially live! While it may be in its early stages, this site is destined to become a cluck-tastic hub for all things related to the charming Dutch Bantam breed. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or just curious about these delightful feathered friends, there’s something here for everyone. We aim to build a community that celebrates the quirky and playful nature of these birds, sharing tips, stories, and resources that resonate with both avid fans and those who might be a bit chicken-hearted. Join us on this egg-citing journey as we grow together and create a special space for the Dutch Bantam breed! Stay tuned for more updates and fun content!
Robert already has friends.
In a world where friendships bloom in the most unexpected places, Robert's story shines as a delightful reminder that sometimes, the best connections are already established. Submitted by the insightful u/negrilatina, this piece explores the nuances of friendship, emphasizing that true companionship doesn't always require a grand introduction. Instead, it often thrives in familiar faces and shared experiences. With a sprinkle of humor and a dash of heart, Robert's journey invites readers to reflect on their own friendships and the value of those who stand by us through thick and thin. Dive into this engaging narrative to discover how friendships can be both ordinary and extraordinary, reminding us that we often have all we need right in front of us.
This is gonna be a rooster
Get ready to embrace the cluck-tastic chaos of roosters in this delightful post, “This is gonna be a rooster - The nice ones are always roos.” With a touch of humor and a sprinkle of vulnerability, the author captures the whimsical reality of chicken ownership, where sweet personalities often come with a side of crowing chaos. Expect laughter and relatable moments as they navigate the joys and challenges of raising these feathered friends. Plus, the playful anticipation of comments about space and roosters adds to the community vibe, inviting fellow chicken enthusiasts—fearful or fearless—to join in the fun. So, grab your favorite snack and settle in for a tale that’s as egg-citing as it is genuine!
Bantams with large breeds
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! It sounds like you’ve got a delightful flock filled with charming bantams. Expanding to include large breeds for those egg-citing brown and green eggs is a fantastic idea! When introducing larger breeds, like Ameraucanas or Orpingtons, it's generally a good plan since many of these breeds are known for their friendly demeanor, which should help them integrate smoothly with your bantams. Just keep an eye on the pecking order to ensure everyone feels at home. Your setup sounds cluck-tastic with plenty of space for frolicking and a cozy shed for cozy nights. With your eye on breeds like Faverolles, Cochins, and Welsummers, you're sure to create a colorful and harmonious flock! Happy chickening out on your new adventure!
Mother Hen and her babies
Meet Mother Hen and her adorable brood, a heartwarming snapshot that captures the essence of feathered family life! Submitted by u/The_Lake_Now_Feels, this delightful portrayal showcases the playful bond between a hen and her fluffy little chicks as they navigate the world together. Whether they're clucking up a storm or embarking on tiny adventures, these feathered friends remind us of the joys and challenges of motherhood—chicken style! It’s a cluck-tastic reminder that even the smallest creatures can fill our hearts with joy and laughter. So, let’s dive into this charming moment and celebrate the whimsical world of chickens, where love, laughter, and a bit of fowl play rule the roost! Check out the full story and join the conversation!
pepperoni crest
Meet Pinto, the rooster with a comb so grand it could rival a feathered crown! Submitted by the ever-curious /u/ExcellentCheek4750, this delightful observation highlights a charming aspect of chicken life that often goes unnoticed. Pinto’s impressive comb isn’t just eye-catching; it’s a sign of his vitality and maturity, giving us a peek into the fascinating world of poultry growth. As we celebrate our feathered friends, it’s important to appreciate the quirks that make each chicken unique. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of poultry, Pinto’s story is a cluck-tastic reminder that our chickens have their own fabulous flair. Join in the conversation and share your thoughts on combs and crowing!
Sunny morning it is
Sunny mornings are a delightful time for any chicken enthusiast, and in "My Flock," submitted by u/TimkiP, we dive into the charm of starting the day with our feathered friends. Picture this: the sun peeking over the horizon, its rays warming the coop, while the soft clucking of chickens fills the air. Each day brings new adventures and unexpected antics from these quirky creatures, reminding us why we love them so much. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or someone who just enjoys a good chuckle at their expense, this post captures the essence of life with chickens. Join us as we explore the joys, challenges, and those egg-citing moments that make every sunny morning with our flock truly special.
Waterbelly not draining
If you’ve ever found yourself in a bit of a chicken pickle, you’re not alone! Recently, I thought my feathered friend was eggbound, so I tried soothing her with Epsom salt baths—after all, who doesn’t love a spa day? But she was still doing her business normally, and I couldn't feel an egg. After some clucking around online, I discovered she actually has waterbelly. I drained about 20 milliliters from her yesterday, but when I went for round two today, I met a bit of a roadblock. Despite doing everything by the book with a 20-gauge needle, nothing came out, and to my surprise, she started bleeding. Here’s hoping for a cluck-tastic recovery soon!
Is my cockerel big for 4 months and 2 weeks old?
Is your cockerel strutting his stuff a little larger than average at 4 months and 2 weeks old? Weighing in at around 2.5 kg, he’s definitely making a statement! However, the real question is whether this size is cluck-tastic for his age or if there’s a bit of fowl play in his diet. With no grower feed and a diet primarily of corn while free-ranging in your backyard, his growth could be influenced by a mix of factors, including genetics and environment. Let’s dive into what’s considered normal growth for a cockerel and explore how diet and lifestyle might be playing a role in your feathered friend’s development. Join the conversation and see how your cockerel compares to others in the flock!
Hen or roo?
Meet your new feathered friend! This sweet fellow, acquired from Murdoch's and sold as a prairie bluebell, is currently 15 weeks old and has yet to display any crowing behavior. You might be wondering if there’s a chance this bird could actually be a hen that simply developed quicker than expected. Prairie bluebells are known for their unique coloration and charming personalities, making them a delightful addition to any flock. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or just dabbling in the delightful world of poultry, figuring out the gender of your new friend can be a bit of a feathered mystery. Join the conversation as we ponder the possibilities and share insights on identifying hens versus roosters!