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.

My new friend
Meet my delightful new friend—an unexpected feathered companion that’s brought a splash of whimsy to my life! Submitted by the ever-curious u/Silver-Ad-3981, this story highlights the charming adventures that arise when we embrace the quirks of our feathered friends. Chickens may seem intimidating at first, but they have a way of surprising us with their personalities and antics. From clucking conversations to unexpected cuddle sessions, this journey is all about finding joy in the delightful chaos that comes with chicken companionship. So, whether you're a seasoned farmer or just someone who loves the delightful chaos of poultry life, join me in celebrating this egg-citing new friendship! Check out the full story [here] and join the fun in the comments!

chicken i saw today
Today, while wandering through my usual haunts, I spotted a chicken that truly caught my eye! Its feathers shimmered in the sunlight, creating a dazzling display of colors that made it look almost regal. I couldn't help but admire its unique personality as it strutted around with a confidence that only a chicken could muster. This feathered friend seemed to embody both charm and a hint of mischief, making it impossible not to smile. It’s moments like this that remind me of the quirky beauty in our backyard chickens, each one boasting its own personality and flair. So, what do you think? Isn’t it egg-citing to encounter such a pretty poultry pal in our everyday lives? Share your thoughts!

Favorite Raptor so far
Meet Atlas, my favorite *avian dinosaur* from the Jackraptor program! This feathered marvel has truly captured my heart with his impressive wing claws and majestic presence. At almost a year old, Atlas tips the scales at about 9 pounds and stretches an impressive 35.5 inches from tip-of-toe to tip-of-beak. He embodies the perfect blend of beauty and power, making him a standout in the raptor lineup. Whether he's soaring through the air or perched regally, Atlas is a true testament to the wonders of avian evolution. Join me in celebrating this magnificent creature and sharing the joy he brings to our lives! Check out the link for more details and to see why Atlas has earned his spot as my top favorite.

I’ve had chickens less than a year, spring is wild!
Spring has sprung, and what a wild ride it’s been for new chicken parents! Having chickens for less than a year, I’m already experiencing the delightful chaos of the season. My feisty hen, Sugar, has taken her nest-building duties to heart—literally pulling feathers right out of her behind to make it the coziest spot possible. Meanwhile, I stumbled upon some adorable chicks in the rooster coop, a sweet surprise given my background in wildlife rehab. It’s all part of the cluck-tastic adventure that spring brings! So, whether you’re a seasoned farmer or a casual chicken admirer, let’s embrace the joy and craziness this season has to offer. Happy spring, y’all! Let the feathered fun begin!

Little Demon
Meet Little Demon, the charming six-month-old crowing sensation of the flock! While he may not share the same striking traits as his mother and older brother, he certainly brings his own flair to the coop with his delightful fur color. This little guy has been turning heads and raising eyebrows with his newfound vocal talents, adding a whimsical soundtrack to daily farm life. His quirky personality shines through, making him a beloved member of the family, even as he navigates the challenges of growing up. With each crow, Little Demon reminds us that every feathered friend is unique, and that’s what makes life on the farm so egg-citing! Join us in celebrating his journey as he embraces the joys and antics of chickenhood!

This is Tommy
Meet Tommy, the charming chicken who has captured the hearts of many! Submitted by the delightful u/Postal_Paradise, Tommy is not just any ordinary feathered friend; he embodies a whimsical blend of personality that makes him utterly egg-citing! With a quirky flair and a mischievous spirit, he showcases the love-hate relationship so many of us have with our backyard chickens. Whether he's strutting around the coop or plotting his next adventure, Tommy's antics are sure to bring a smile to your face. Join in on the fun and dive into the comments to share your own chicken tales, fears, or simply to bask in the cluck-tastic charm of Tommy. Let’s celebrate the fowl play of chicken life together!

My baby loves “onigiri” 🥰🍙
In a delightful twist of morning routine, a baby’s love for “onigiri” takes center stage! 🥰🍙 Typically, she seeks out her parent for this tasty treat, but today, she decided to mix things up. As she took her time laying her egg, she discovered the joys of ordering from Goober Eats. It’s a charming reminder of how even the littlest ones can embrace change and explore new ways to enjoy their favorite foods. This playful moment not only highlights the unique bond between parent and child but also adds a sprinkle of whimsy to the everyday hustle. Join in on the fun and share your own quirky food adventures!

Bert getting the mean rooster treatment.
Bert has certainly found himself on the receiving end of some mean rooster treatment after a two-week absence from work. This feisty fowl thinks he can just waltz back in and attack without consequences! But not on my watch. When Bert goes for the peck, I have a tried-and-true method: I scoop him up and carry him around until he realizes who’s really in charge. Surprisingly, this quirky technique works like a charm, and somehow, I’ve earned his respect—much to the amusement of my coworkers! While our other roosters are friendly and welcoming, it’s Bert, the biggest of the bunch, who takes on the role of the overly protective guardian. Life on the farm is never dull, that’s for sure!

Egg discoloration
Are your eggs putting on a color show in the fridge? If you’ve noticed some of your clucky creations sporting unexpected discoloration after being refrigerated, you’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts, like our friend ShowerPristine1387, have encountered this curious conundrum. It’s important to remember that eggs can vary in appearance due to several factors, including the hen's diet, age, and even the temperature during storage. Not washing your eggs before refrigerating is a great practice to maintain their natural bloom, but sometimes the cold can bring out those quirky hues. Let’s crack this mystery together, so your egg-cellent breakfast doesn’t come with any surprises! Join the conversation to share your experiences and solutions with our feathered friends’ fabulous eggs!

Bur Clover discovered
Introducing our feathered friends to the great outdoors can be a cluck-tastic adventure! Recently, we took our five-week-old chocolate Orpingtons on their very first foray into a Bur Clover patch. Typically cozy in their enclosed chicken run, this was a delightful new experience for them to explore and free graze. Watching their curious little heads bobbing as they discovered this tasty treasure was pure joy! Of course, I was right there with them, keeping a watchful eye to ensure their exploration was safe and sound. These moments remind us just how fun—and a bit chaotic—chicken parenting can be. So, join us in celebrating this egg-citing milestone in our backyard flock's journey!

Coop Height Question
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you’re embarking on an egg-citing adventure with your new feathered friends! Your coop plans are shaping up nicely, and it’s fantastic that you’re considering their comfort amidst Colorado’s chilly winters. Building a cozy coop that’s compact can indeed help keep them warm, especially with those clever windbreaks you’ve planned. As for height, while many opt for a walk-in shed style, your approach to a more compact design is totally valid—just ensure that roof material provides good insulation. Remember, it’s all about finding that perfect balance between space and warmth for your ladies. Can’t wait to see those baby pictures! Keep up the cluck-tastic work, and you’ll have a happy coop in no time!

Is it reasonable to find these chicks online?
Are you on the hunt for some cluck-tastic companions to bring joy to your family? If you're looking for white bantam silkie chickens, you’re in for a delightful experience! Known for their friendly and sweet nature, these feathered friends make an egg-citing addition to any backyard coop. However, tracking them down can sometimes feel like a wild goose chase, especially if you’re searching locally. The struggle to find just three without breaking the bank on shipping can leave anyone feeling a bit frazzled. Fear not! There are strategies to uncover these charming chicks online or even connect with local enthusiasts who might have leads. Let’s crack this case and help you find those adorable silkie chickens!
Preparing to welcome chicks!
Hello everyone! As a proud chicken parent for four cluck-tastic years, my flock has grown to ten hens and, for the first time, a dashing rooster! Last year’s attempt at welcoming chicks was a bit of a disaster when we discovered three tiny chicks had met a tragic fate shortly after hatching. I’m left wondering—was that normal? Should I be isolating the broody hen? What precautions can we take to ensure our future feathered friends thrive? If you’ve experienced the joys (and challenges) of raising chicks, I’d love your insights! Let’s hatch some egg-citing plans together and make this year’s chick-venture a success! Your advice would mean the world to us as we prepare to welcome our new little ones!

Any ideas what’s going on? Hoping to treat ASAP
Is your hen feeling a bit under the weather, but you can't quite put your finger on it? You're not alone! One of our feathered friends seems to be experiencing a peculiar issue, yet she’s still hanging out like a champ on the roosting bar. Some folks suspect it might be mites or pesky rodents nibbling at her legs, but a thorough check of the coop didn’t reveal any rodent intruders. With hardware cloth fortifying the run both above and below ground, it seems like a solid defense. Plus, using hay for nesting and pine shavings for bedding should keep things cozy. If anyone has ideas or insights into this quirky conundrum, let’s hear those cluck-tastic suggestions!

Update the chick I found is doing great
In my latest adventure with Zoey, the delightful chick I found in Hawaii, things have taken a turn for the better! Initially, caring for her at just one day old was a cluck-tastic challenge without the right setup. Fast forward to now—Zoey is a sprightly 9 or 10 days old and definitely a girl (I’ve done my research, and yes, I checked her butt!). She’s healthy, happy, and thinks I’m her momma hen! While I’ve got a cozy setup for her, I feel she needs some feathered friends to avoid feeling lonely. I’m considering getting another chick since my housemate despises roosters. Any advice from fellow chicken lovers would be egg-citing! Let’s keep the clucking community thriving! 🐔💕
We have a racist roo...suggestions?
It sounds like you’ve got quite the character in your yard—a creme legbar with a bit of a bullying streak! While RooRoo may have a special bond with his olive egger hen and their chicks, it’s clear he’s not playing fair with the rest of the flock. From chasing off the cuckoo maran to guarding the feeder against the less-favored hens, his behavior is causing quite a ruckus. It’s commendable that you want to find a solution without resorting to drastic measures. Separating his favored hens for a short time could help reset the pecking order, but it’s always good to explore other strategies. Let’s brainstorm some ideas to help him embrace his role as a more inclusive and supportive rooster!

Almost 4 weeks!
Can you believe it? Almost four weeks have flown by, and our little feathered friends are growing at an astonishing rate! 🥹 It's incredible to witness their transformation from tiny chicks to almost full-sized chickens, each day bringing new adventures and delightful antics. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or just dipping your toes into the clucky world of poultry, this journey is a reminder of the joy and surprises that come with raising these quirky creatures. From their first attempts at foraging to those hilarious moments when they try to assert their dominance, there's never a dull moment. Join us in celebrating this egg-citing milestone and share your own experiences with your growing flock!
Help! My chickens are eating all the heir eggs.
Oh no! It sounds like you’ve found yourself in a cluck-tastrophe with your feathered friends snacking on their own eggs! This peculiar behavior can leave any chicken keeper scratching their head (and maybe a few feathers). You’ve already tried some popular solutions like fake eggs and oyster shells, and even invested in those roll-away nest inserts—talk about dedication! But alas, your clever cluckers have other plans, opting for a cozy corner instead. Don’t despair! You’re not alone in this egg-ceptional dilemma, and other chicken enthusiasts have faced similar issues. Let’s explore some egg-citing strategies that might just turn the tide and keep those precious eggs safe from hungry beaks. Join the conversation and share your experiences—together, we can find a solution!
Rhode Island Red Experiences
Welcome to the wild world of Rhode Island Reds! As a first-time chicken parent, you’re diving into the delightful chaos of chick life, and it sounds like your two RIRs are living up to their reputation for spunkiness. Their fearless approach—flying at you and nipping your fingers—might feel a bit overwhelming, but fear not! This behavior is quite common for chicks around 6-7 weeks old, as they’re exploring their surroundings and asserting their personalities. Mixed reviews on RIR temperament can leave you scratching your head, but every chicken has its quirks. Let’s gather experiences from fellow chicken enthusiasts to better understand these feisty feathered friends. Share your thoughts and let’s cluck about those charming antics!
Tips needed on how to care for blind chicken
When caring for a blind chicken, especially in the wake of a traumatic event like a predator attack, it’s essential to create a safe and supportive environment. First, ensure her living space is free from obstacles that could cause confusion or harm. Since she may struggle to find food, consider using distinct sounds or textures to guide her to her meals. You’re already on the right track by manually feeding her and offering blended cat food. You might also try placing her food in shallow dishes to make it easier for her to access. Remember, patience is key! With time, she can learn to navigate her surroundings and regain some independence, but your attentive care will surely help her along the way.

What is he doing?
Have you ever found yourself wondering what your feathered friend is really up to? That's exactly the conundrum our friend Arnie presents. With a bit of quirkiness that leaves us scratching our heads, he seems to be doing something unusual—something that doesn’t quite match the typical chicken behavior we remember. Years ago, we might have seen hens squatting in submission, but Arnie’s antics feel different, especially given his young age. It’s as if he’s trying to send a message, beckoning you closer while comfortably perched on your chair. This blend of curiosity and confusion makes Arnie a truly fascinating character. Is he simply a little weird, or is there more to his strange behavior that we’re yet to uncover?

Looking to rehome this rooster
🐓 Looking for a feathered friend who needs a new home? Meet Dog, the sweetest indoor/outdoor rooster you'll ever meet! This calm little guy loves to snuggle up in his favorite blankets and is great with children, making him a delightful addition to any family. We're on a mission to find him a forever home where he can roam freely and live his best life outdoors. Based in Raleigh, NC, I'm happy to drive him to you! If you're interested in giving Dog the loving home he deserves, please comment below or send me a DM. Additionally, if you know of any animal sanctuaries that could help, I'm all ears for suggestions. Let's give this charming rooster a cluck-tastic new start! 🐥✨

Let’s play a game! Match the eggs to the hens (answers in the comments)
Cluck, cluck, let’s crack into some egg-citing fun! It’s time to match our feathered friends with their fabulous eggs in this delightful game! We have three unique contenders for you to guess from. First up is Zelda, our adorable 7-month-old golden retriever baby who’s just laid her very first egg—cue the clucking confetti! Next, we have Olive, the stylish 1.5-year-old specialty hatchery breed hen sporting a fabulous hairdo that’s sure to turn heads in the coop. Lastly, meet Eevee, our charming 1-year-old mixed-breed hen, whose poofy neck and petite comb give a hint to her mixed lineage. Think you can match the eggs to their hens? Join the fun and drop your guesses in the comments below!

Feedback needed on dick chicken
Hey feathered friends and chicken enthusiasts! It seems we have a little cluck-tastrophe on our hands. One of our girls has been feeling a bit under the weather for the past three days. While she was scratching around with her pals, she just wasn’t her usual lively self. This morning, I noticed she was a bit sluggish, standing alone under the coop. When I lifted her, water ran from her beak, leading me to suspect an impacted crop. After some gentle massaging and water, I discovered yellow liquid and what appeared to be plastic or a balloon! She’s been nibbling on a boiled egg and Swiss chard, but I’m still monitoring her. Should I keep waiting, or is there something else I can do?