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.

Krissy’s Chickens

Oh the things crazy chicken ladies get excited about🤪🤣 #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #FreshEggs

Welcome to the delightful world of crazy chicken ladies, where excitement knows no bounds! From the joyous clucking of our feathered friends to the thrill of collecting fresh eggs, life with chickens is always an adventure. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or just dipping your toes into the egg-citing realm of pet chickens, there's a quirky charm that keeps us all clucking with joy. Join us as we share hilarious anecdotes, tips for chicken care, and the occasional fowl play that leaves us all in stitches. So, grab your favorite chicken-themed mug and prepare for a fun-filled journey through the whimsical ups and downs of chicken ownership. Trust us, it’s going to be cluck-tastic! #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #FreshEggs

Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Is it okay if some of my hens are larger than my rooster?

Is it okay if some of my hens are larger than my rooster? This question may seem a bit silly, but it’s one that many new chicken owners ponder. One Redditor, /u/Neat-Session-9006, recently discovered that one of their Columbian Rocks is a rooster and is now curious about the dynamics in their flock of six chickens: two Columbian Rocks, two ISA Browns, and two Black Jersey Giants. As they anticipate their Black Jersey Giants being larger than their rooster, they wonder if this size difference will affect their rooster’s behavior. Will he be friendly to his bigger ladies, or could he get a bit fowl? Let’s explore the chicken kingdom's size dynamics and ease those first-time chicken-raising jitters!

My neighbor gave us this chicken today. Can anyone tell the sex and breed?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

My neighbor gave us this chicken today. Can anyone tell the sex and breed?

Meet the latest addition to your backyard flock! Our friend Theodore has received a feathered gift from a neighbor, and now he’s on a mission to uncover the chicken’s sex and breed. Chickens can come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities, so identifying these traits can be both fun and a tad puzzling! Whether you're a seasoned poultry pro or just dipping your toes into the world of chickens, the community is here to lend a wing. Join the conversation and share your insights on this cluck-tastic mystery. Is it a rooster ready to strut his stuff, or a hen destined to lay some egg-citing breakfast treats? Let's help Theodore figure it out together! Check out the link for photos and details.

Ordered some compost… seems to be full of chicken weeds
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Ordered some compost… seems to be full of chicken weeds

Ordered some compost and it seems to be full of chicken weeds—sounds like quite the cluck-tastrophe! We all know that compost can be a treasure trove for gardeners, but when it comes with unexpected guests like chicken weeds, it can feel like a fowl play situation. These pesky plants can sprout up unexpectedly, reminding us just how unpredictable gardening can be. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie just getting your feet (or boots) dirty, encountering these weeds can be a little disheartening. But fear not! You’re not alone in this journey. Let’s dive into some tips and tricks to tackle those chicken weeds head-on while keeping the fun in your gardening experience. Join the conversation and share your own compost tales!

Here's a good idea of the conditions battery cage hens live in
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Here's a good idea of the conditions battery cage hens live in

Ever wondered what life is like for battery cage hens? Let's dive into the stark reality. In this post, we get a closer look at two Boven Brown and two Isa Brown chickens, commonly found in battery cages. For context, they were placed in a cage measuring just four square feet—more space than many of these hens will ever see. While it’s a tight fit for four birds, in reality, battery cages often squeeze in even more, leaving each hen with less than one square foot for her entire life. Most people are aware that battery cages are bad, but few grasp just how dismal the conditions truly are.

Home made coop from junk pallets and scrap wood.
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Home made coop from junk pallets and scrap wood.

Are you ready to embark on a cluck-tastic adventure in DIY chicken coops? Meet HmetwnZero, who transformed junk pallets and scrap wood into a cozy home for their feathered friends. With creativity and resourcefulness, they crafted a coop that’s both budget-friendly and charming, spending only on chicken wire and a coop sign from Amazon—oh, and the adorable chicks, of course! This project beautifully showcases how a little imagination and some repurposed materials can lead to a delightful result. Now, HmetwnZero is eager for your thoughts and constructive criticism on their coop creation. Join the conversation and share your insights—after all, we’re all in this chicken-raising journey together! Cluck, cluck, let’s get critiquing!

Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Unfortunately, the hard part of having chickens.

Life with chickens can be a cluck-tastic adventure, filled with joy and quirky moments, but it also comes with its share of heartache. Today, we mourn the loss of Betty, our beloved alpha hen, who unexpectedly passed away on the coop floor. She was a true matriarch, raising chicks and laying impressive eggs even after a tough summer. Sadly, chickens are masters at hiding their ailments, and we have no clue what took her. This loss hits especially hard as she was my wife’s favorite, and breaking the news to her later will be tough. With nearly ten chicken deaths in our three years together, we’ve grown resilient, yet each loss leaves its mark.

chickens

Advice for Chicken Coops and Breeds (1st time)

Hello there, future chicken enthusiast! It sounds like you and your fiancé are about to embark on an egg-citing journey into the world of chicken keeping—congratulations on both your upcoming wedding and your coop plans! When it comes to choosing between a movable coop and a stationary one, each option has its perks and quirks. Movable coops offer flexibility and fresh forage for your feathered friends, while stationary setups provide stability and space for nesting. You might also ponder whether to box build or DIY your coop—both can be cluck-tastic if tailored to your needs. As for breed suggestions, mixing egg-layers with meat birds can create a well-rounded flock. Let's dive into the delightful details of coop design and breed choices together!

Any help on names for these babes?
chickens

Any help on names for these babes?

Attention, chicken aficionados! We have a delightful naming challenge on our hands. Meet six charming little ladies, three Buff Orpingtons and three Brahmas, all just five days old and currently mastering the art of skittishness. These feathered friends may be a bit shy now, but with a little love and patience, they'll soon be happily pecking treats right from your palm. Naming these cuties is no small feat, so let’s brainstorm some cluck-tastic ideas! Whether you’re leaning towards quirky, whimsical, or downright punny names, we want to hear your suggestions. Dive into the comments and share your thoughts! Let’s make sure these future egg-layers have names as fabulous as they are!

chickens

is this a prolapsed vent on my rooster?

Hey y’all! It sounds like your silkie rooster is going through quite the feathered fiasco. Messy poops can be a real head-scratcher, and adding some apple for fiber is a great idea! Now, about that fluffy rear—if it looks like something's amiss, you might be wondering if he has a prolapsed vent or if that’s just his papilla making an appearance. It can be tough to tell, especially when he’s acting normal but a bit sluggish. Don’t worry; you’re not alone in this chicken conundrum! Let’s dive into what to look for and how to support your brave boy during his clean-up adventure. Remember, keeping a close eye on him is key to ensuring he stays cluck-tastic!

Need help telling what sex they are
chickens

Need help telling what sex they are

Hatching your own chickens is a cluck-tastic adventure filled with joy and curiosity! But now that you’ve welcomed these delightful feathered friends into your family, the age-old question arises: how do you tell the boys from the girls? Each breed can have its own quirks, making the task even more egg-citing—and a bit perplexing! Don’t worry; you’re not alone in this journey. Many chicken enthusiasts have faced the challenge of sexing their chicks, and it’s a common topic in the world of poultry parenting. Whether you’re looking for tips on feather patterns or vocalizations, we’re here to help you navigate this quirky conundrum. Let’s dive into the fun and fascinating world of chicken sexing together!

chickens

Is something wrong with my hen?

Is something wrong with my hen? If you've noticed your two-year-old feathered friend constantly ruffled, spending excessive time in her nesting box without laying eggs, and experiencing foul-smelling diarrhea, it’s time to investigate! While she’s still munching on food and sipping water, her behavior might indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. Chickens can be surprisingly vocal about their discomfort, and these symptoms could point to anything from stress to illness. Remember, our clucky companions can be a mix of perplexity and charm, but it's essential to ensure their well-being. Let’s dive into the possible reasons for her unusual behavior and discuss how to support her in getting back to her happy, egg-laying self!

Swollen Eye
chickens

Swollen Eye

Uh-oh! It sounds like Goldie might be having a bit of an eye-venture! A swollen eye in chickens can be a cluck-tastic mystery, and while it’s great that she’s acting normally and there’s no discharge, it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on—pun intended! This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as pecking injuries, allergies, or even a little fowl play from a feathered friend. Sometimes, it’s just a harmless bump, but it’s always best to play it safe and keep an eye on her behavior. If Goldie's eye doesn’t improve or if she starts acting off, a vet visit might be in order. Let’s dig into some possible causes and how to help your feathered friend feel her best!

What is this chicken?
chickens

What is this chicken?

Curious about your feathered friends? You’re not alone! When you stumble upon unfamiliar chickens, it’s natural to feel a mix of intrigue and confusion—especially when they seem to resemble hawks. In this post, submitted by the ever-curious /u/LancerPanzer, we dive into the delightful world of chicken identification. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just starting your poultry adventure, figuring out what breeds you have can be both egg-citing and a little perplexing. Join the community as we share insights, tips, and a few laughs along the way. Let’s uncover the mystery of these intriguing birds together and celebrate the quirky charm they bring to our lives! What do you think they could be? Cluck-tastic discussions await!

Is the white one a chicken or a turkey?
chickens

Is the white one a chicken or a turkey?

Are you scratching your head wondering, “Is the white one a chicken or a turkey?” You’re not alone! Recently, a fellow enthusiast, u/Former-Anything-8657, found themselves in a bit of a feathered conundrum after adding three new chickens to their flock. One of these newcomers boasts a long neck and a larger size, raising questions about its true identity. This playful dilemma highlights the quirky nature of chicken keeping, where surprises and laughter abound. Join us as we dive into the world of poultry, exploring the differences between chickens and turkeys, and sharing tips for identifying and caring for your feathered friends. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious newbie, there’s always something egg-citing to learn!

This little baby got very comfy
chickens

This little baby got very comfy

Today was a cluck-tastic day filled with chick checks! While I was giving my newly hatched chicks a health inspection—looking for any signs of cross beak or funny leg behavior—one little fluffball decided to get extra cozy. As I gently cradled it to check for any concerns, this adorable chick drifted off to dreamland! But the moment I set it down, it woke up with a huff, clearly offended by the sudden change in its snuggly situation. It’s moments like these that remind us just how quirky and full of personality our feathered friends can be! Join me in celebrating the hilarity and charm of chick care, one sleepy baby at a time! Check out the full story and share your own cuddly chick experiences!

What type of chicken?
chickens

What type of chicken?

Meet our feathered friend who’s been clucking around for a few months now! We stumbled upon this adventurous chicken running free and decided to bring her home. To our delight, she lays large, beautiful blue and green eggs that add a splash of color to our breakfast table. However, we’re stumped when it comes to identifying her breed. Despite our best efforts, we haven’t been able to pin down exactly what type of chicken she is. So, we’re turning to you, fellow chicken enthusiasts! If you have any insights or guesses about her breed, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s unravel this mystery together and celebrate the quirks of our charming, egg-laying companion! Thanks in advance for your help!

chickens

Help baby chicke n

When caring for baby chicks, even a little experience can go a long way! It sounds like you’ve already taken some great initial steps to help the little one in distress. Providing a mix of egg yolk and Pedialyte is a fantastic way to give it a boost. Since you’ve noticed a lump on its chest, which is likely the crop, it’s important to ensure it’s functioning properly. If the chick continues to struggle, consider picking up some chick starter feed, as it’s specially formulated for their needs. You might also look for electrolyte solutions designed for birds, which can help keep them hydrated. Remember, the bird volunteer will have valuable insights, but your willingness to learn is already a cluck-tastic start!

What kind of chicken is this?
chickens

What kind of chicken is this?

Is your feathered friend leaving you scratching your head? If you’re wondering, “What kind of chicken is this?” you’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves puzzled by their birds’ unique traits, especially when one seems to grow at a snail’s pace compared to its clucking companions. Perhaps it’s a rare breed, a little late bloomer, or even a rooster in disguise. Understanding your chicken’s breed and characteristics can help you provide the best care and support for your flock. Join us as we dive into the delightful world of chicken breeds and growth patterns, and together we’ll unravel the mystery of your slower-growing chicken! Don’t worry—every chicken has its own charm, and we’re here to celebrate that!

Help with identify what’s wrong with baby chick
chickens

Help with identify what’s wrong with baby chick

Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you're in quite the clucky conundrum with your little feathered friend. At four weeks old, it’s concerning to see her struggling, especially if she was thriving before. There could be a few reasons for her wobbliness—perhaps she’s been trampled by her bigger buddies, or there might be an underlying issue at play. It’s great that you’ve isolated her to give her some extra TLC, but it sounds like she needs a little help with food and water, too. Let’s dive into some possible causes and solutions to help your chick get back on her tiny feet. Together, we’ll figure out how to give her the best chance at a cluck-tastic recovery!

Does anyone know what this feather condition could POSSIBLY be?
chickens

Does anyone know what this feather condition could POSSIBLY be?

Hey, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you’re in a bit of a feather pickle with your feathered friends. Bullying and pecking can be a real concern in the flock, and it’s tough to see those poor chickens struggling with their feathers. The condition you’ve described, especially with those oddly growing feathers, certainly raises some eyebrows. It’s great to hear you’re trying saddles to help protect them, and giving the one with the raw skin some extra care during the night is a smart move. It’s curious that this has been going on for several months—have any of you experienced a similar feather dilemma? Let’s band together and share insights, because together we can tackle these cluck-tastic challenges!

This chicken showed up in my front yard
chickens

This chicken showed up in my front yard

Imagine stepping outside to collect your Amazon package, only to be greeted by an unexpected feathered friend in your front yard! This delightful surprise has left our fellow chicken enthusiast, u/Big_Fox_7518, with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty. What do you do when a chicken adopts your home as its temporary roost? With posts on NextDoor and Ring Neighbors in search of its owner, the anticipation builds. Will anyone claim this cluck-tastic visitor? It’s a whimsical scenario that many can relate to, blending the charm of rural life with the quirks of urban living. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or someone who’s just a bit chicken about it, join the conversation and share your thoughts on how to handle this fowl encounter!

Just wanted to share :D
chickens

Just wanted to share :D

Just wanted to share a delightful moment from our feathered friends that will surely bring a smile to your face! Submitted by the ever-enthusiastic u/MaximilianoJr_Kaplan, this post captures the quirky charm and unexpected antics that make chickens such entertaining companions. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or simply someone who enjoys a good chuckle, you'll find something to relate to in this fun-filled story. It’s a perfect reminder of the joy and laughter our clucky pals can bring into our lives. So, grab a seat and get ready to be entertained by this cluck-tastic tale that celebrates the whimsical side of chicken life. Don’t forget to check out the link and dive into the comments for more laughs and community love!

Black australorps
chickens

Black australorps

Meet your new feathered friends: the Black Australorps! These charming chickens are known for their glossy black feathers and friendly personalities, making them a delightful addition to any backyard flock. You’ve scored yourself a rooster and three hens for $60—what a cluck-tastic deal! Now, about that one with the brown feathers around the neck—while it’s possible that it’s a mix or has some unique coloring, true Black Australorps typically sport a uniform black plumage. As for your hens, their greenish sheen is a hallmark of this breed's beauty. And that rooster? Sounds like he’s just keeping a watchful eye on you while enjoying his free-range life! Chickens can be quite the characters, can’t they? Keep an eye on those quirky antics!