chickens
chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 2944 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.
Sick chicken help!
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is having a bit of a rough patch! When a chicken shows signs of lethargy, changes in poop, and increased water consumption, it’s time to pay attention. Her scabby toes and the poop around her vent are definitely worth investigating further. While it’s great that she’s still eating and walking around, these symptoms suggest she might need a little extra TLC. Since she’s pushing four years old, her health can be more delicate, so keeping a close eye on her behavior and condition is crucial. Let’s dive into some possible causes and solutions to help get your chicken back to her cluck-tastic self in no time!
What advice would you give me for choosing between chicken breeds?
Choosing the right chicken breeds is an egg-citing adventure, especially for a novice chicken enthusiast like you! Since you’re planning to build a coop and run that can accommodate the infamous “chicken math,” you have a fantastic foundation for your feathered friends. Brahmas and Faverolles are both excellent choices—Brahmas are gentle giants, while Faverolles are known for their sweet dispositions. If you’re considering a mix, think about combining calm breeds like Orpingtons or Sussex, which are friendly and easygoing. Since you prefer breeds that mind their business, these options will likely fit the bill. Remember, while productivity is a fun bonus, the joy of companionship is what truly makes chickens cluck-tastic pets. Happy researching, little chicken gremlin! 🐔✨
Took them outside for the first time. I think they’re plotting something 👀
Took my feathered friends outside for their very first adventure, and let me tell you, things got a bit suspicious! As they strutted around, I couldn’t shake the feeling that they were huddling together for some top-secret chicken meeting—one that I definitely wasn’t invited to! 👀 It’s as if they were plotting their next big move, and I was just the bewildered bystander trying to decipher their clucks and cackles. Honestly, it’s a cluck-tastic reminder of how these quirky little creatures can be both adorable and a tad mischievous! So, if you’ve ever wondered what chickens discuss when they think no one is listening, join me on this delightful journey of chicken antics and feathered friendships. Get ready for some egg-citing revelations! 😆
Worms in eggs
Oh cluck! Finding a worm in an egg can be quite the shocker for any chicken enthusiast. What you’re likely dealing with is a type of nematode, possibly a roundworm, that can sometimes find its way into the eggs from an infected hen. It’s not a common occurrence, but it does happen! Since your flock of 18 seems healthy overall and you only spotted worms in one egg, it’s possible that only one hen is affected. Keep an eye on that slightly slower chicken; she may need a little extra TLC. For treatment, consider consulting a vet to ensure the health of your feathered friends. Remember, a little vigilance can go a long way in keeping your flock cluck-tastic!
It’s a sad day and a happy day on the homestead
Today brings a bittersweet blend of emotions on the homestead. We bid farewell to our beloved wolfhound, Bertram Wilberforce Wooster, who passed peacefully in the night. His gentle spirit will be deeply missed. Yet, as if nature herself wanted to remind us of the cycle of life, our broody hen debuted a delightful surprise this morning—eight adorable chicks! Mom, our lovely black Australorp, has kept them hidden, but Dad remains a mystery after hopping over the fence one day. However, not all is well, as a ninth chick struggles to find its footing. While it managed to drink water, it’s not as lively as its siblings. Any advice on nurturing this little one would be greatly appreciated!
Missing my brave girl
Today, I find myself missing my brave girl, Jojo, more than ever. From the moment she strutted into our lives as our “Queen B,” she embodied feistiness, bravery, and intelligence. Jojo faced challenges head-on, famously battling a hawk twice her size and emerging victorious against the odds. Her spirit was unyielding, even after enduring multiple health struggles. Despite facing surgeries and setbacks, she never lost her queenly flair, always returning to boss around the flock with gusto. While her journey ended in heartache, it’s essential to celebrate the incredible life she lived—full of love, resilience, and unforgettable moments. Jojo may be gone, but her legacy as a fierce fighter and beloved companion will forever remain in our hearts. ❤️
I need a positivity break - tell me about your favorite chicken!
Feeling a bit overwhelmed? It's time for a positivity break! Let’s celebrate our beloved feathered friends and share the joy they bring to our lives. Meet Noisy, my vibrant and chatty companion, who never fails to make her presence known. As the loudest girl in the flock, she’s a little too clever for her own good, always pointing out the weak spots in my garden fence. But don’t let her antics fool you—she’s also the sweetest! Noisy is the only one who’ll happily follow me around the garden, even when I’m snack-less. She loves a good cheek scritch, and her quirky personality never ceases to brighten my day. Share your favorite chicken and let’s bask in the joy they bring! Bonus points for photos!
How to keep a chicken busy
Are your feathered friends looking a little bored? Chickens can be quirky critters, and keeping them entertained is key to a happy coop! In this delightful guide by /u/IllegalGeriatricVore, you’ll discover a treasure trove of egg-citing activities to keep your flock busy and engaged. From engaging foraging games to DIY puzzles that spark their curiosity, these tips will turn your chicken yard into a cluck-tastic playground. Say goodbye to fowl play and hello to happy hens! Not only will these activities help prevent boredom, but they’ll also promote natural behaviors and keep your chickens healthy and content. So grab your favorite snacks and let’s dive into the whimsical world of chicken entertainment! Your flock will thank you!
New peepers hatching today...
New peepers are hatching today, and excitement is in the air! Our determined Bantam hen has been brooding like a pro, making three attempts to bring her little ones into the world. After two rounds of chilly temps that just wouldn’t cooperate, she’s finally succeeded on her third try, welcoming three adorable chicks under her wings. With three more eggs still waiting to join the party, we can’t wait to see how this story unfolds. Pumpkin, our devoted mama hen, is going to be a fantastic mother, nurturing her feathered friends with all the love and care they need. Stay tuned for updates on this cluck-tastic adventure as we celebrate the joy of new life on the farm!
NEED HELP FAST
Meet Chick, our little feathered friend who’s facing a bit of a cluck-tastrophe! Born with splayed legs, this adorable chick is now in a cozy container, where we're hoping to work some magic. But wait—after a closer look, I’m starting to wonder if it might actually have wry neck. The uncertainty is making me feel like I’m in a game of chicken hide-and-seek! I’m reaching out to our wonderful community for advice. Have any of you dealt with splayed legs or wry neck in your chicks? Your insights and experiences could be just the egg-citing help I need to give Chick the best chance at recovery. Let’s chat and see if we can help this little one strut its stuff soon!
I fear my chicks may be dumb.
We've all been there—watching our feathered friends and questioning their intelligence, especially when they seem to gather in a pile on a warm day. As my chicks approach the eight-week mark, they've been enjoying the sunshine and fresh air in their run. However, on this particularly warm spring day in the Midwest, I caught a glimpse of them all huddled together, and I couldn't help but think, “Surely, they can't be cold!” To my surprise, they were panting from the heat! A little intervention was needed, so I stepped in to disperse the flock, and just like that, their panting ceased. Sometimes, I wonder if my chicks are just a bit clueless—or maybe they're simply embracing their quirky chicken ways!
How many eggs do your chickens hoard?
Have you ever been flabbergasted by your chickens' egg-cellent hoarding skills? I certainly was when my daughter-in-law checked on our small flock of 30 mismatched chickens this morning. Among them, two hens are currently broody, and I thought, “Why not let them be?” After all, a couple of baby chicks could be a delightful addition! However, I was completely taken aback to discover that one hen had 10 eggs tucked under her, while the other had an unbelievable **46**! How on earth did she manage to collect and incubate that many eggs all on her own? It's truly insane! This got me wondering—what's the most eggs you've ever caught your hens hoarding? Let's share our cluck-tastic stories!
What is wrong with it's but?
Welcome to the quirky world of chicken parenting! If you're a first-time chicken owner scratching your head over what your feathered friend has left behind, you’re not alone. Many new chicken enthusiasts find themselves puzzled by the peculiar nature of chicken droppings. While it’s true that chickens can produce some rather hard “presents,” understanding what’s going on can help you keep your flock happy and healthy. Chicken poop can vary in consistency and color, depending on their diet and health. What might seem like a rock-hard mystery could actually be a sign of their digestive process at work. Let’s dive into this cluck-tastic topic and unravel the secrets of chicken droppings together!
Is this a vent issue ?
Hey fellow chicken enthusiasts! It looks like we have a clucky conundrum on our hands. One of our feathered friends is acting a bit out of the ordinary, and it’s left their human scratching their head in confusion. With 40 chickens in the flock, it's quite the mystery that only one is experiencing this issue. Is it a vent problem, or something else entirely? Our brave poster, u/Mortalwhitefang, has turned to the community for insight while also diving into the depths of Google. If you’ve encountered a similar situation or have any egg-citing advice to share, this is the perfect opportunity to lend a helping wing! Let's band together and sort this out—because every chicken deserves to strut their stuff with confidence!
Island chicken
Welcome to the whimsical world of Island chickens, where feathered friends roam freely on the picturesque shores of Roi-Namur! This enchanting island is home to a lively population of chickens, each with its own quirky personality. Imagine a place where clucking fills the air, and these delightful birds strut about like they own the beach. With their carefree spirit and stunning coastal backdrop, Island chickens are not just a sight to behold; they're a feathered phenomenon! Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who’s ever chickened out at the thought of them, Roi-Namur’s vibrant chicken community is sure to charm and amuse. Come join the fun and discover the egg-citing antics of these island-dwelling fowl!
Getting 1 day old vs 1 week old chicks
When it comes to welcoming new feathered friends into your home, the age of the chicks can make a cluck-tastic difference in the bond you develop with them. Getting 1-day-old chicks offers a unique opportunity for crucial imprinting, where they learn to see you as their caregiver and friend. This early stage is vital for building trust and a strong connection. On the other hand, opting for 1-week-old chicks can still lead to a meaningful bond, but you might miss out on some of those formative moments. So, if you're wondering whether to start with the tiniest fluffballs or slightly older chicks, consider how much you value that initial bonding experience.
My baby leghorns really brought the LEG
My baby leghorns are truly bringing the LEG this season! I couldn't resist sharing a photo of my smallest Brahma chick, who’s adorably grumpy this morning—totally understandable for a Monday, right? Already, I’m head over heels for these little fluffballs! This year, I’ve welcomed Light Brahmas and White Leghorns into my flock, marking a departure from my beloved Buff Orpingtons, who had taken over the coop like they owned the place. Seriously, I blinked, and the yard was swarming with Orpingtons, save for one Easter Egger and one Cinnamon Queen. So, to spice things up, I decided to add four leghorns and four Brahmas. Here’s to new beginnings and cluck-tastic adventures with my feathered friends!
Rooster or hen?
Are you team rooster or hen? It’s a cluck-tastic conundrum that many chicken enthusiasts face! At 8-9 weeks old, our feathered friends are starting to show their true colors. The Americana chick is stealing the spotlight, growing faster than its pals and flaunting longer tail feathers. Meanwhile, the Barred Rock chick is stepping up with a slightly redder comb and a brave spirit that makes it the fearless leader of the flock. With such distinct personalities emerging, it’s a delightful challenge to determine who will ultimately rule the roost. Join the conversation and share your thoughts—who do you think will strut their stuff as a rooster or settle into hen life? Let’s crack this mystery together!
Off to the fryer
Get ready for some cluck-tastic news! Our feathered friends are making the big move to their outdoor palace, leaving behind the cozy confines of their indoor digs. No need to worry—there’s no fowl play involved here! These beautiful egg layers are ready to spread their wings and enjoy the sunshine, while we keep our hearts (and our frying pans) safely tucked away. It’s an exciting adventure for both the chickens and their caretakers, filled with the promise of fresh air and plenty of clucky shenanigans. Join us as we embrace this egg-citing transition and share in the laughter (and maybe a little madness) that comes with moving our beloved flock. Let’s give a warm welcome to their new home!
Saw this fluffy fella at the fair last week. Any clue what breed he is?
Last week at the fair, I stumbled upon this fluffy fella that instantly stole my heart! With feathers that looked like they were spun from clouds, he had charm written all over him. Now, I’m on a quest to uncover the breed of this adorable creature. Is he a Silkie, with those delightful, soft feathers that make you want to snuggle? Or perhaps a Cochin, known for their round bodies and sweet disposition? Identifying chicken breeds can sometimes feel like a game of fowl detective work, but it’s all part of the fun in our quirky chicken-loving community. So, if you have any clues or insights about this fluffy wonder, let’s put our heads together and figure it out! 🐔✨
48 Brahma eggs and 13 Indio Gigante eggs; cause why have normal sized chickens when I can have an army of frighteningly large chickens
Why settle for ordinary chickens when you can assemble a feathered army of epic proportions? With 48 Brahma eggs and 13 Indio Gigante eggs, you're on your way to raising some of the most impressively large and striking chickens out there! These breeds are not just fascinating for their size; they bring a unique charm and personality to your flock. Brahmas are known for their gentle disposition and majestic appearance, while Indio Gigantes are celebrated for their impressive stature and hardiness. Together, they promise a cluck-tastic adventure that will leave you both amused and slightly intimidated. Get ready to embrace the delightful madness of chicken-keeping, where every day is an egg-citing new chapter with your towering feathered friends!
Any guesses as to what chickens my mom got?
Easter is just around the corner, and it looks like my mom has embarked on a cluck-tastic adventure! She recently picked up a batch of chickens, but there's a twist—she has no idea what breeds she actually brought home. The seller had all the lovely ladies mixed together in one big cage labeled simply “females,” leaving us in a delightful mystery. Are we looking at egg-citing breeds like the vibrant Rhode Island Reds or the quirky Silkies? The suspense is almost enough to make us “chicken out” while we try to guess! Join the fun as we unravel this feathered mystery together, and let’s see if we can pinpoint which adorable hens have joined our family. Any guesses?
Is this set up ok?
Getting ready to welcome your feathered friends into your life is both egg-citing and a little nerve-wracking! If you’re a first-time chick parent like our friend /u/fiophvc, you might be wondering if your setup is just right for those adorable little bundles of fluff. Chickens may seem like a handful, but with the right preparations, you’ll be clucking your way to success in no time! From cozy bedding to the perfect temperature and safe feeding options, every detail counts. Don’t be shy—let's dive into some cluck-tastic tips and tricks to ensure your new chicks feel right at home. Whether you're feeling confident or chickening out, we’re here to support you on this whimsical journey into chicken-keeping!
bent fingers
Are your fingers bent in a way that’s causing you concern? If you’ve noticed this change in the last three weeks, you’re not alone in wondering, “What’s going on?” Bent fingers can be the result of various factors, including arthritis, tendon injuries, or even repetitive strain. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step toward addressing the issue. Whether it’s discomfort, limited mobility, or just an unexpected change in appearance, it’s essential to seek clarity. In this discussion, we’ll explore potential reasons for your bent fingers, what they might indicate, and practical steps you can take to find relief and regain function. Let’s unravel the mystery together and get you back to enjoying life with your hands in tip-top shape!