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.

Waited all day to catch this one.
After a long day of anticipation, we finally welcomed our newest feathered friend into the world! We’ve been on edge, checking in every few hours since we spotted that little pip over eight hours ago. This is our first adventure in hatching chickens, and we couldn’t be more excited! This little one is a delightful mix of Silkie and Easter Egger, while the others in the hatch are a charming combo of Easter Egger x Silkie and Silkie x Mystic Marans. To add to the fun, we’ve also staggered the hatch times for our button quail, ensuring a lively chaos in our coop. Join us in celebrating this egg-citing moment as we embark on our journey with our quirky feathered friends!

Why do you guys have chickens?
Why do we have chickens, you ask? Well, let me tell you—it’s a cluck-tastic journey filled with delightful surprises! Chickens bring a unique blend of joy and chaos to our lives, making every day feel like a feathered adventure. Whether it’s the thrill of collecting fresh eggs or the sheer amusement of watching their quirky antics, these feathered friends never fail to entertain. Plus, let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a good chicken pun? From the occasional fowl play to moments of chickening out, our relationship with these birds is as relatable as it is hilarious. Join us as we explore the many reasons why chickens are not just farm animals but lovable companions that add a dash of whimsy to our everyday lives!

Update: Pepaw Supervised Release
**Update: Pepaw’s Supervised Release** Exciting news from the chicken coop! Our beloved Pepaw has enjoyed two supervised outings, or as I like to call them, conjugal visits! While I’ve been working in the yard, I’m thrilled to report that there hasn’t been a peck of aggression toward our old hens—fingers crossed! To ensure Pepaw stays on his best behavior, I've enlisted my kids for chicken watch duty over the next few hours. We’re all hoping he can keep it together when I’m not around. After all, we want his little zombie face to remain part of our flock on this earthly plane. Stay tuned for updates as we navigate this feathered adventure together!

What type of chicken is she
Meet the quirky little hen who stands out in a flock of feathered friends! This girlie isn't just smaller than her companions; she also makes some delightfully bizarre sounds that could make anyone do a double-take. If you’ve ever wondered what type of chicken she might be, you’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves puzzled by the unique traits of their flock members. Is she a rare breed, or just a one-of-a-kind character? Join us on this egg-citing quest to uncover her identity and share in the laughs that come with her oddball personality. Let's celebrate the wonderfully weird world of chickens together, because every feathered friend has a story worth clucking about!

Scaly leg mites?
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you've stumbled upon a common yet concerning issue—scaly leg mites! These pesky critters can lead to lethargy and overall unwellness in our feathered friends, so it's great that you're reaching out for advice. Even if your chickens came with the house and aren't the most hand-tame, your commitment to their care shines through. Keeping their coop clean is a fantastic start! Remember, it’s completely normal to feel anxious when our chickens aren’t feeling their best. In this community, we share the highs and lows of chicken-keeping, so let's rally together to help your little one bounce back to cluck-tastic health! Dive into the comments for tips and support from fellow chicken lovers who understand your journey.
My hen survived a dog attack, laid 3 eggs, and took a supervised garden stroll like a Victorian lady in recovery 😭💪
Meet Blackhat, the ultimate drama queen of the hen house! Just a week ago, she faced a terrifying dog attack that left her with a nasty neck injury, sending us into a panic. I transformed our basement into a cozy ICU, complete with daily wound care and plenty of emotional support (for both of us!). But did she let that slow her down? Absolutely not! In a show of true chicken resilience, Blackhat laid three eggs—because who needs a break from work, right? Today, she strolled through the garden like a Victorian lady, completely unfazed by her recent scare. With her quirky personality shining bright, Blackhat is back on her feet and reminding us all just how tough our feathered friends can be!

Breed?
Curious about chicken breeds? You’re not alone! Our friend /u/dandelion_chain has a feathered companion that’s captured their heart—a sweet and docile hen hatched from a random mix of eggs at work. With her curious nature and gentle demeanor, it’s a mystery worth solving. Chicken breeds can vary widely in temperament and appearance, and identifying them can be a fun challenge for any chicken enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just have a soft spot for our clucky pals, this is the perfect opportunity to dive into the wonderful world of chickens. So, if you think you know which breed this charming hen might belong to, join the conversation and share your insights! Let’s unravel this chicken conundrum together!
broody hen drama?! 😂
Welcome to the wild world of broody hen drama! 😂 Meet Boujiee, affectionately known as Miss Boujiee Butt, who has taken her motherly instincts to a whole new level by hoarding eggs and transforming into a feathery fortress! The moment she senses my approach, it's a mad dash back to her precious eggs—like she thinks I'm plotting a fowl heist! Meanwhile, our other hen, Goldie, seems to be co-parenting, sneaking in for a little egg-sitting action when Boujiee takes a break. But today, I discovered two rogue eggs just chilling in the coop, seemingly set aside by Boujiee for Goldie. It’s a classic case of chicken custody battles! 🐔 Have you ever encountered this kind of poultry plot twist?
Yale Chicken Research
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! I’m an engineering student at Yale, diving into the world of biosecurity challenges in commercial poultry houses. I’m on a mission to connect with 10–15 contract growers to learn about your daily management routines, particularly around the ever-important topic of mortality removal. Your insights are invaluable, and I can’t wait to tap into your expertise! I promise it’ll be a laid-back chat—just a quick 20-minute phone call at a time that suits you. If you’re interested in sharing your experiences and helping a curious student out, please DM me or drop a comment below. Let’s cluck about how we can keep our feathered friends safe and sound!
2 week old chick sneezing
If you’ve got a 2-week-old chick who’s been sneezing like she’s auditioning for a poultry version of a sneeze competition, you’re not alone! Sneezing in chicks can be fairly common, especially if they’re exposed to dust or allergens—like when you switched her bedding from pine shavings to pellets. It sounds like your little feathered friend is otherwise healthy, since she’s eating, drinking, and her eyes and nostrils look normal. While it’s frustrating that the vet didn’t witness her sneezes, it’s good they checked her vitals and found nothing alarming. Keep an eye on her, and if the sneezing persists or worsens, don’t hesitate to seek further advice. Welcome to the whimsical world of chick ownership—where every sneeze can spark both concern and curiosity!

I thought you might appreciate this tiny egg my Orpington laid!
Hey there, chicken aficionados! I just had to share this delightful little nugget from my Orpington—a tiny egg that’s practically bursting with charm! It’s so small, it could’ve almost been laid by a Sussex, but honestly, does it really matter? Either way, it’s an egg-citing treasure that feels like a sprinkle of magic in our feathered friends' daily adventures. There’s something wonderfully whimsical about finding these petite surprises that remind us of the unique joy chickens bring into our lives. So, let’s celebrate the quirks and cuteness of our flock and keep the good vibes rolling! Wishing everyone a cluck-tastic day filled with laughter and maybe a few more adorable surprises from your own backyard buddies!

My olive egger chicks have entered their rebellious phase and grew mohawks
Get ready to cluck with laughter because Mr. Fluffy Thing’s olive egger chicks have officially entered their rebellious phase! These little feathered rascals have swapped their sweet, innocent looks for funky mohawks, proving that even chicks can channel their inner rock stars. It’s a wild world in the coop as these daring darlings strut their stuff, turning heads and ruffling feathers. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken whisperer or just someone who enjoys the delightful chaos of poultry life, this hilarious transformation will surely tickle your funny bone. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on these fabulous feathered friends—who knew rebellion could look so egg-citing? Check out the full story and comments for some serious chuckles!

Is my pretty girl a pretty him?
Is your pretty girl actually a pretty him? It sounds like you have quite the feathered mystery on your hands with Sylvie! Having welcomed her into your flock nearly a year ago, it’s understandable that her age and gender might be a bit murky. Silkies can be tricky to read, especially with those fluffy feathers hiding their true identities. Adding a new rooster could certainly shake things up in the coop, and it’s not uncommon for a hen to surprise us with an unexpected crow! While it might feel a bit daunting, remember that chicken identities can be fluid. Let’s dive into the delightful world of chicken gender guessing and explore whether your Sylvie girl is still a lady after all! 🐔✨

Update on my sick chicken
Hey fellow chicken lovers! I’m reaching out for some cluck-tastic advice on my sick feathered friend. Good news: both her eyes are open now! However, she’s got some mucus coming from her beak and is a bit of a diva when it comes to being touched. Sometimes she struggles with her breathing, but it’s not constant. I’ve been trying to help her out by giving her some electrolyte water (though she wasn’t thrilled about it) and she’s had a little scrambled egg treat. I’m really hoping she feels better soon, as I’m a bit worried about her. If anyone has tips or advice on what else I can do, I’d be all ears! Thanks for the support, everyone! [link] [comments]

Two chicks reporting for a hen/roo vote!
It’s time for a cluck-tastic election update! Two adorable chicks are strutting their stuff and reporting live from the hen and rooster voting booth—ready to spill the beans (or seeds) on the latest avian opinions. As feathered friends gather to cast their votes, the buzz around the coop is electric. Are the hens leaning towards a cozy nesting policy, or will the roosters push for more free-range fun? Join us as we dive into the delightful chaos of poultry politics, where every chirp counts and every opinion matters. With a mix of humor and heartfelt insights, we’ll uncover the consensus that shapes life in the coop.

What is this behavior called?
Have you ever watched your feathered friends engaging in what looks like a bizarre dance of scratching and preening? You might wonder, “What is this behavior called?” Is it just a routine feather-cleaning session, or could it be a sign of something more serious? Chickens, those delightful bundles of fluff, engage in a variety of behaviors that can baffle even the most seasoned poultry aficionados. From scratching the ground to fluffing their feathers, each action has a purpose and meaning behind it. So, let’s dive into the whimsical world of chicken behavior and uncover what your clucking companions are really up to. Whether they’re simply grooming or signaling something more significant, understanding these antics can deepen your bond with your flock!

We all grew up🥳
Ah, the delightful journey of growing up! We all have those moments that define our youth, filled with laughter, awkwardness, and perhaps a dash of chaos. In this whimsical exploration, submitted by the ever-charming /u/Affectionate-Gap2197, we dive into the nostalgic tales that connect us all. Whether it’s the first time we faced our fears, the unforgettable mishaps with our feathered friends, or the heartwarming memories that still bring a smile, each story adds a unique feather to our collective cap. This is a celebration of growth, transformation, and the hilarity that often accompanies our adventures. So, gather ‘round, fellow chicken enthusiasts and childhood reminiscers, as we relive those egg-citing moments of our lives!

What's up here? I've checked and preventatively treated for mites and lice havent found any
What's going on in your coop? It sounds like you’re navigating some feathered friend drama! You've checked for mites and lice—good call—yet Blanch is still sporting a featherless look, with no irritation to boot. As for your roosters, those bald patches and rough feathers could be signs of molting, especially since they’re around a year old. You might have noticed a dip in egg production too, which often accompanies this natural process. Plus, it’s great that you’ve adjusted their light exposure to 13-16 hours; constant light can indeed play tricks on their molting cycle. Let’s dive into some tips and tricks to help your flock flourish during this feather-shedding phase!

Grumpy little man
Meet our grumpy little man, who was quite the character before being scooped up for a quick cuddle! With a face that could rival a thundercloud and a demeanor to match, he grumbled his way through the day, letting everyone know that he wasn’t particularly thrilled about the attention. Yet, beneath that feisty exterior lies a charm that’s hard to resist. It’s a classic case of the “grumpy but lovable” archetype that resonates with many of us who have encountered a feathered friend with a bit of attitude. Whether you find him amusing or relatable, this little guy reminds us that even the grumpiest of chickens have their moments—and sometimes, those moments are just too egg-citing to miss!

2 week old chick
Meet one of my adorable two-week-old chicks, a little bundle of joy with some exciting pin feathers starting to sprout! If you're new to raising chicks like I am, you might be wondering what these pin feathers are all about. They are the early stages of a chick's feathers, looking like tiny, soft quills poking through the skin. It’s a delightful sign that your feathered friend is growing up and getting ready for its first flight—eventually! Watching these little ones develop is a cluck-tastic journey filled with surprises and joy. Have you noticed any similar feather developments in your chicks? Let’s share our experiences and learn together in this whimsical adventure of chick-raising!

Two pekin bantam mothers are a bit confused
In the whimsical world of chicken rearing, confusion among our feathered friends can lead to some cluck-tastic moments! Enter two Pekin bantam mothers, who have found themselves in a bit of a puzzling predicament. These pint-sized parenting pros are navigating the delightful chaos of motherhood, but something seems a little off in their coop. Whether it's a case of misplaced eggs or a mix-up in chick supervision, their antics are sure to amuse and resonate with both seasoned poultry enthusiasts and those who find themselves chickening out at the thought of raising chickens. Join us as we dive into this charming tale of maternal mystery, showcasing the quirks that make life with chickens truly egg-citing!

Fancy a cuppa, Franco?
Fancy a cuppa, Franco? is a delightful exploration of the quirky and endearing world of chicken-keeping, presented by the whimsical mind of /u/Evil_Jellyfish_. This piece invites readers to sip tea while navigating the charming chaos that accompanies raising feathered friends. With a blend of humor and sincerity, the author shares personal anecdotes and insights that resonate with both seasoned chicken enthusiasts and those who might be chickening out at the thought of these fowl companions. From the joys of gathering fresh eggs to the unpredictable antics of chickens, this article offers a light-hearted yet relatable perspective that is sure to amuse and engage.

Mama Chilling
Mama Chilling is a delightful exploration of the whimsical world of chickens, crafted by the imaginative mind of u/WarGroundbreaking136. This engaging piece invites readers into a cluck-tastic journey, where the joy of raising feathered friends meets the hilarity of their unpredictable antics. With a blend of humor and vulnerability, Mama Chilling captures the love-hate relationship many have with these quirky companions. It's a celebration of the unpredictable charm that comes with chicken-keeping, where laughter is abundant, and moments of chaos are just part of the fun. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or simply chicken-curious, this submission is sure to resonate, offering both entertainment and a sense of community among fellow chicken enthusiasts. Join the conversation and embrace the madness of Mama Chilling!

My Flock.
Welcome to My Flock, where the journey from five curious chickens to a bustling community of 40 feathered friends unfolds! Three years ago, I took the plunge into the whimsical world of poultry, and what an egg-citing adventure it has been! Each cluck and flutter has brought laughter, lessons, and a sprinkle of chaos to my backyard. As I navigated the ups and downs of chicken-keeping, from the joy of fresh eggs to the occasional fowl play, I discovered a vibrant community of fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just chickening out at the thought of chickens, there’s something here for everyone. Join me as we celebrate the quirks, challenges, and pure joy of our feathered companions!