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.

How old is this rooster?
Meet our charming new feathered friend—a rooster who found his way to our rural home, likely abandoned by a previous owner. This handsome fellow is a sight to behold, exuding love and affection as he follows us around the yard, eagerly asking to be picked up each morning. His gentle nature makes us wonder about his age. How old do you think he is? As we consider whether to keep him, we also ponder if we need to bring in some hens to complete his little flock. Would he still shower us with love if he had a couple of girls by his side? Join us in exploring the delightful quirks of this lovable rooster and the possibilities that lie ahead!

My little friend crossed the rainbow bridge
Today, I bid farewell to my little friend Gigi, who crossed the rainbow bridge this morning. 🌈 I adopted Gigi and her flock sister, Midge, during lockdown, and they were my delightful companions throughout those challenging times. Gigi was a sweet and beautiful hen, often found indulging in potted plants as if they were her personal spa retreat. While she could be a bit skittish, her friendly nature shone through, and she loved the occasional cuddle. Unlike her feisty sister Midge, Gigi had a gentle spirit and a knack for recognizing her name, always coming running when I called. Fly high, my feathered friend; your spirit will always flutter in my heart. ❤️

Chicken math
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken math, where the numbers just never seem to add up! If you've ever found yourself wondering how one or two feathered friends turned into a bustling flock, you’re not alone. Chicken math is that delightful phenomenon where each new addition feels like a cluck-tastic necessity. Whether it's succumbing to the charm of a new breed or simply expanding your egg-citing collection, it’s easy to find yourself in a feathery frenzy. But fear not, dear reader! This fun and relatable journey into the world of chickens will reassure you that, in the end, you can never have too many of these quirky companions.

Goodbye, little Cheeky
Saying goodbye to little Cheeky has left my heart heavy and my spirit in shock. I returned home from lunch, expecting to see her gentle presence among my feathered friends, but instead found a void. Cheeky, my timid Olive Egger, was the smallest in the flock and the sweetest soul I had from Day 1. Despite her challenges, including a bout with dry fowl pox, she brought joy with her dust baths and playful scratching in the pebbles. While her sisters began laying eggs in January, Cheeky remained my beloved little companion, and now I’m left with only memories. Thank you, Cheeky, for the moments we shared. You will always be my first favorite chicken, and I will cherish you forever.

What is my baby doing?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken ownership, Deirdre! Your five-week-old bantam Cochin is certainly on an exciting journey as he explores his charming feathered life. If you suspect he’s a cockerel, those early attempts at crowing are just his way of finding his voice—how egg-citing! Don't fret too much about his slower development; bantam Cochins are known for their unique growth patterns, and each chick has its own timeline. It's not unusual for some to be fluff balls while others strut around fully feathered. Embrace the quirks of your feathered friends, and remember, every day brings a new cluck-tastic adventure in the chicken coop! Your community of fellow chicken enthusiasts is here to share in the fun and offer support.

Help
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is having a bit of a rough patch! It's perfectly normal for first-time chicken owners to feel a little flustered when it comes to their flock's health. Since your chick is still eating, drinking, and mingling with her buddies, that’s a good sign! However, it’s essential to pay attention to any changes in behavior or appetite. To help you out, consider checking for signs of illness, ensuring she has a comfortable space, and reviewing her diet. The chicken community is here to support you, so don’t hesitate to ask more questions or share specific details about her condition.
Ireland ~ Anyone In Reach Of Leitrim?
Hey there, chicken lovers of Leitrim! I’m in a bit of a cluck-tastrophe—my Modern Game Bantam hens just won’t stop laying! I’ve already given away a couple of dozen eggs, but these feathered friends are determined to keep producing more. They’re perfect for kids—sweet, innocent, and absolutely adorable! A local expert even praised their quality, saying they’re great breeding stock. Unfortunately, I can’t send them out due to skyrocketing shipping costs and my limited trips to town. So, I’m reaching out to you wonderful folks for help! I won’t accept a cent; I’m just passionate about preserving this breed. If you know anyone who might be interested, please let me know. Your support means the world to me!
Best Practices for Managing Chicks Right After Hatching?
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the feathered world of chick management right after hatching. It's a crucial time for our adorable little chicks, and best practices can make all the difference in their survival and health. In Palestine, we typically start with sugar water on day one and follow up with antibiotics in their drinking water for the first five days. By day seven, we administer the Newcastle disease vaccine. But how does this stack up against practices in other regions or professional farms? Do you use sugar water right away? What’s your stance on antibiotics? I’d love to hear your vaccination schedules and any additional supplements you recommend.

Chickens who lay together stay together
Meet Shirley and Thelma, the dynamic duo of the coop! While Louise is busy clucking about her latest grievances, Shirley and Thelma are busy laying the groundwork for a cluck-tastic friendship. These feathered friends know that when it comes to egg production, teamwork makes the dream work! With their playful antics and quirky personalities, they show us that a little camaraderie can go a long way in the chicken world. Whether they’re sharing a cozy nesting spot or engaging in a game of fowl hide-and-seek, these two prove that laying together is not just about eggs—it's about building bonds. Join us on this egg-citing journey as we explore the delightful dynamics of Shirley and Thelma’s friendship!

Reusable bags!
Who knew that those sturdy feed bags could be the unsung heroes of our grocery shopping adventures? It turns out, they’re not just for our feathered friends—they make fantastic reusable grocery bags too! With their durability and spacious design, these bags are perfect for hauling everything from fresh produce to your favorite snacks. Plus, by giving feed bags a new life, you're making an eco-friendly choice that benefits both your wallet and the planet. So, if you've been chickening out on investing in reusable bags, it’s time to embrace this cluck-tastic alternative! Let’s dive into the world of feed bags and discover how they can add a touch of whimsy to your shopping trips while keeping things sustainable and fun!

What’s up with my freshly hatched chick?
Hatching a chick is always an egg-citing adventure, but it can come with its fair share of surprises! If your freshly hatched chick took a bit longer to emerge and seems to have funky down feathers that resemble little balls at their base, you’re not alone. This phenomenon can happen when humidity levels in the incubator are a bit too high during the hatching process. While it’s not uncommon, it can leave you feeling a bit concerned for your feathered friend. Don’t worry, though! It’s a quirky aspect of chick development that many chicken enthusiasts have encountered. Let’s dive into what’s happening with your little one and how you can help ensure they fluff up nicely in no time!
My chickens are not eating chicken feed
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! Welcome to the quirky world of poultry parenting! It sounds like you're navigating the sometimes clucky waters of chicken feeding. Your feathered friends are certainly expressing their preferences—cracked corn is like chicken candy, and they might be ignoring the nutritious chicken feed beneath. Fear not! It’s a common dilemma for new owners. Mixing cracked corn with chicken feed is a great start, but you might want to try gradually reducing the amount of corn to encourage them to explore that wholesome feed. Consider offering the feed in a separate feeder or even experimenting with different brands. Your chickens will get the hang of it eventually! Let’s keep those discussions feathered and informative. Good luck!

Guys it happened. Im 90% sure my favorite "pullet" is a rooster
Guys, it happened! I’m 90% sure my favorite "pullet" is actually a rooster. I mean, can you believe it? After all the cluck-tastic moments we’ve shared, discovering this feathered friend’s true identity has me in a whirlwind of emotions! Picture this: a cozy coop with coarse sand (I promise it’s clean) and the realization that my sweet little chick is strutting around like he owns the place. It’s a mix of joy and chaos—definitely a case of fowl play! Join me as I navigate this quirky twist in my chicken-keeping adventure, filled with laughter, a sprinkle of madness, and the relatable challenges we all face as chicken enthusiasts. Let’s dive into this egg-citing revelation together!

Our Winterborn/Most Recent Hens enjoy the Spring
Spring has arrived, and our Winterborn/Most Recent Hens are ready to embrace the season with open wings! Submitted by the ever-enthusiastic u/Zaner_mceegeei, this delightful post captures the joy and antics of our feathered friends as they experience the vibrant sights and sounds of spring. Whether they’re scratching in the freshly thawed soil or basking in the warm sunshine, these hens bring a sense of whimsy and wonder to the farm. Join us in celebrating the new life and egg-citing adventures that spring brings! Dive into the comments to share your own stories or simply revel in the charm of these cluck-tastic moments. Let’s cluck about it together!

Can't be the only one.
If you’ve ever found yourself chuckling at the antics of your chickens, you’re not alone! In the whimsical world of poultry, some feathered friends resemble those lovable yet freeloading characters we all know—a bit lazy, always on the lookout for a snack, and somehow managing to charm their way into our hearts. Picture them as the ultimate sidekick, always ready to entertain while simultaneously raiding your garden or begging for treats. They might drive you a little cluck-crazy, but their quirky personalities make it all worthwhile. Join the fun as we dive into stories of these delightful birds and the human-like traits that make them unforgettable! After all, who can resist the laughter and joy they bring to our lives?

Male or female? Two easter eggers
Meet two delightful Easter Eggers who are currently residing on my mother’s property! Now, before you start imagining a colorful egg hunt, let’s get to the cluck of the matter: we need help determining their gender. At around four months old, these feathered friends have yet to make their voices heard—no crowing just yet! Despite the picture quality being a bit of a throwback (thanks to her decade-old phone), we’re eager to hear your insights. Are we looking at a pair of charming hens or a dashing duo of roosters? Join the conversation and help us crack this mystery! Your expertise might just save us from chickening out! [link] [comments]

TJ had an impromptu meet and greet with a fan yesterday and now she feels like a true celebrity (and she’s acting like one too)
Yesterday was a cluck-tastic day for TJ, who had an impromptu meet and greet with a fan that left her feeling like a true celebrity! The encounter was filled with laughter, excitement, and a sprinkle of that quirky charm we all adore about her. As she basked in the spotlight, it was clear that TJ was loving every moment, embodying the playful spirit that makes her so relatable. From sharing funny stories to exchanging chicken-related puns, the meet and greet turned into a delightful celebration of community and connection. Now, with a newfound confidence and a twinkle in her eye, TJ is fully embracing her celebrity status—feathered friends and all! Check out the details and join the fun in the comments!

Meet my flock
Meet my flock—Bluey, Sofie, Diamond, and Sapphire! These four adorable baby Sapphire Sky chickens are already melting my heart. I brought them home from Tractor Supply just yesterday, and I can't contain my excitement about having my very own flock of feathered friends. Each little lady brings her own unique personality to the coop, and I can't wait to share their whimsical antics with you. Whether it's Bluey’s curious nature, Sofie's playful spirit, Diamond’s dazzling charm, or Sapphire’s sweet demeanor, these girls are sure to bring endless joy and laughter to my days. Join me on this cluck-tastic journey as we navigate the delightful and sometimes chaotic world of chicken parenting together!

Brave and friendly chicken
Meet our brave and friendly chicken, submitted by the delightful u/CountyBrilliant! This feathered friend is not just a cluck-tastic companion but also embodies the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that every chicken lover can appreciate. With a heart full of courage and a personality that shines brighter than the sun, this chicken is ready to take on the world—one peck at a time. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of the coop or forming bonds with fellow fowl, this chicken showcases the quirky charm that makes chickens so endearing. Join us in celebrating this extraordinary bird, who proves that even the most timid among us can be brave and friendly in the face of life's challenges. Cluck yeah!

What are Candy’s breeds?
Meet Candy, the tiniest feathered friend in our flock, weighing in at just 3 pounds! Hatched by our neighbor last year, she has quickly become a beloved member of our family. After a recent visit to the vet, we learned that Candy might be a delightful mix of Orpington and Araucana breeds. Orpingtons are known for their friendly demeanor and striking appearance, while Araucanas are famous for their charming blue eggs. Candy embodies the quirks and joys of chicken ownership, captivating us with her playful antics and endearing personality. Join us as we explore more about her unique traits and what makes her such a cluck-tastic addition to our backyard adventure!

Is my chick a hen or a roo ?
Are you scratching your head, wondering if your black chick is a rooster or a hen? You're not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts face this feathery puzzle, especially when their little ones have siblings that look quite different. In this delightful case, our friend /u/peppercinni suspects that their black chick might be a rooster, given its unique appearance compared to its grey-colored siblings, despite them all belonging to the same breed. Identifying the gender of chicks can be a tricky business, but fear not! With a little guidance, we can help you uncover the clues hidden in those adorable fluffballs. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of chick identification and see what makes your little feathered friend stand out!

They are lovely
In the whimsical world of chicken enthusiasts, the charm of our feathered friends often shines through in unexpected ways. In the delightful post "They are lovely" submitted by /u/Ok_Onion2727, we explore the endearing quirks and lovable antics of chickens that can turn any fowl day into a cluck-tastic adventure. With their playful personalities and occasional mischief, chickens have a unique ability to make us laugh, even when they ruffle our feathers. This post invites readers to celebrate the joy and humor that comes with caring for chickens, whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just someone who admires their charm from afar. Join the conversation and discover why these quirky creatures continue to capture our hearts, one egg-citing moment at a time!

Cochin bantam hen
Meet the Cochin bantam hen—a delightful breed often praised for its friendly and docile nature. However, like any feathered friend, individual personalities can vary wildly! It sounds like you’ve encountered a sassy little lady with an attitude—pecking you with a fierce determination that could leave even the bravest chicken enthusiast scratching their head. It’s possible she’s feeling a bit insecure in her new surroundings, which can lead to some cheeky behavior. To help her settle in and build trust, consider offering treats like mealworms or fruits, and spend quiet time near her without reaching out. Patience is key; with a little love and understanding, you might just transform her from a feisty hen into your newest cluck-tastic companion!

Got this funky little chick at a local farm swap, it’s called a Vorwerk! Anyone else raise or breed these? I don’t see many around where I am.
Meet the quirky Vorwerk chick—a feathered friend that’s sure to turn heads! Recently snagged at a local farm swap, this funky little bird is a rare gem in many parts, and it’s got us wondering if anyone else out there has had the pleasure of raising or breeding these unique creatures. With their striking appearance and charming personalities, Vorwerks can be a delightful addition to any flock. However, they seem to be a bit of a rarity, so let’s chat! Have you encountered these fabulous fowl before? Share your experiences, tips, or just your admiration for these delightful chicks! Join the conversation and let’s celebrate our shared love for these wonderful, funky little birds!