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.
2017
In 2017, the whimsical world of chickens took center stage in a delightful submission by /u/bohiko. This engaging piece captures the quirky love-hate relationship many have with these feathered friends. With a blend of humor and relatable anecdotes, the author explores the fascinating yet sometimes chaotic life of chicken ownership. From heartwarming moments to the occasional fowl play, readers are invited to embrace the madness and joy of raising chickens. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or simply intrigued by these clucking companions, this submission promises to entertain and enlighten. Join the conversation and discover why chickens can be both a source of laughter and a surprising adventure in everyday life. Check out the link for comments and insights from fellow chicken enthusiasts!
For the first time since having them - my chickens ran over to me!
What an egg-citing moment in the chicken coop! For the first time since welcoming my feathered friends into my life, they actually ran over to me—talk about a cluck-tastic breakthrough! I’ve been diligently following the fantastic advice shared in my previous thread about building a bond with my chickens, and it’s finally paying off. Last night, as I stepped outside and greeted them, I was delighted to see them scurry over to the nearest corner, with Tendra (or Tendie, as I like to call her) leading the charge. Marco followed closely, while Vanillope, true to her cautious nature, hung back a bit. A huge thank you to everyone who offered their wisdom—it’s a joy to see our community thrive together!
Garage bird got house, I got an egg
It’s a cluck-tastic day in the backyard! Dino, my beloved retired hen, has officially moved into her very own garage abode after being bullied out of the flock—poor girl! It seems that her age and quirky charm didn't sit well with the others, but fear not; she’s found a cozy spot to enjoy her golden years. To top it all off, Dino surprised us all by laying an egg today! Who knew retirement could be so egg-citing? This unexpected turn of events has turned an ordinary day into a memorable milestone for both Dino and me. Join me in celebrating this feathered friend’s new chapter and the delightful surprises that come with it!
pullet ID!!
Hey chicken lovers! 🐔 It seems our friend Dizzy_Vacation3280 is in a bit of a cluck-tastrophe! Their hubs accidentally tossed out the box containing the breeds of their precious pullets, leaving them scratching their heads. 😩 While they’ve identified one as an Easter Egger and another as a seafoam green egger (which is egg-citing!), they’re still puzzled about the rest of their feathered friends. If you have any insights on what these charming girls might look like, now’s the time to lend a helping wing! Let’s come together as a community to solve this fowl mystery, and help Dizzy celebrate their quirky flock. Share your thoughts and let’s get those pullet identities sorted out!
My lucky one
Last night was anything but ordinary in my backyard chicken kingdom! As dusk settled in, my feathered friends erupted into a cacophony of clucks and squawks, signaling that something was amiss. Curious and a bit concerned, I ventured out to investigate and discovered one of my hens was missing. After a mini treasure hunt, I found her cozied up in a half-full rain barrel, utterly exhausted and too weak to make a fuss. Thankfully, she spent the night basking under the warmth of a heat lamp, and she’s already bouncing back! What struck me most was how the other chickens raised the alarm, showcasing their quirky camaraderie. It’s moments like these that remind me of the incredible bonds we share with our feathered friends!
Can someone give me advice
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! It sounds like you’ve got quite a cluck-tastic adventure on your hands with your speckled Sussex chicks! Raising them can be a bit of a wild ride, especially after a two-year break. Your concerns about their current 3x2 ft tote being too snug for four growing chicks are valid—space is key for those little feathered friends! As for the weather in southwest PA, it’s definitely a rollercoaster, so you might want to consider running that heat lamp out to the coop. Just make sure it’s secure and provides enough warmth to keep them cozy on those chilly nights. Let’s dive into some advice to help your babies thrive as they feather out!
Avances de Kentucky
¡Cluck-tastic news from the coop! Today, I’m thrilled to share the incredible journey of my beloved Kentucky rooster, who has transformed from a tiny chick into a magnificent feathered friend over the past six months. When he arrived at our home, he was just a week old and cost a mere dollar—who knew such a small investment could lead to such big surprises? Watching him grow has been nothing short of egg-citing! From his awkward first steps to his confident crowing, every moment has been filled with laughter and joy. Join me as I celebrate his progress and the delightful quirks that make him such a cherished member of our flock. You won't want to miss this poultry adventure!
Young hen lays her first egg!
Cluck-tastic news, everyone! One of my home-hatched feathered friends has officially entered the egg-laying club! Yes, you heard it right—my young hen has just laid her very first egg! It’s an egg-citing milestone that brings a mix of joy and a sprinkle of disbelief. Watching her grow from a tiny chick to a proud layer has been a delightful journey filled with quirky moments and a few clucking challenges. This little lady has certainly ruffled my feathers in the best way possible! Join me in celebrating this egg-squisite achievement and share in the joy (and maybe the nervous giggles) that come with the wonderful world of chickens. Check out the comments for more fun and stories from fellow chicken enthusiasts!
Lexi is here to eyeball you intensely 👁️ 👁️
Meet Lexi, the chicken with an intense gaze that could rival any staring contest champion! 👁️👁️ Submitted by /u/HTD_Bros, this feathered friend has a knack for making you feel like she’s peering right into your soul. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or someone who finds themselves chickening out at the mere thought of these quirky birds, Lexi’s watchful eyes bring a mix of humor and curiosity to the coop. Her antics are sure to delight and resonate with anyone who has ever felt both enchanted and slightly intimidated by their own feathered friends. Get ready to dive into the world of Lexi and share in the whimsical charm that only chickens can bring! Join the conversation and see what makes Lexi so egg-citing!
Prairie Bluebells & Polish 'chicks'
After five delightful years with my charming silkies, I recently decided to spread my wings and explore the fantastic world of chicken breeds! Enter the Prairie Bluebells and Polish “chicks” — oh, how I’m absolutely obsessed! These feathered friends bring a whole new level of cluck-tastic joy to my backyard. Prairie Bluebells, with their stunning plumage and friendly personalities, are simply irresistible. And let’s not forget the Polish breed, flaunting their quirky hairdos that make them the divas of the coop! My journey into the realm of these delightful breeds has been filled with egg-citing discoveries and a few hilarious moments. Join me as I navigate this delightful adventure, one peck at a time!
Chick wings look like a butterfly 🦋
Have you ever noticed how chicken wings can resemble delicate butterfly wings? 🦋 It’s a whimsical thought that combines our love for these feathered friends with a dash of culinary creativity! Submitted by the ever-curious /u/isabelasanctuary, this delightful observation invites us to appreciate the beauty in our favorite comfort food. Imagine biting into a crispy, flavorful wing, and suddenly being transported into a world where chickens take flight in vibrant colors and graceful patterns. It’s a fun, light-hearted perspective that not only celebrates the deliciousness of chicken wings but also highlights the quirky charm of chickens themselves. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this cluck-tastic connection! Check out the comments for more laughter and chicken-inspired musings.
My Flock
Exciting news is clucking in the coop! Our flock has just welcomed some delightful new additions that are sure to ruffle a few feathers and bring joy to our chicken-loving community. Whether you're a seasoned poultry pro or just dipping your toes into the world of feathered friends, there's always something egg-citing about expanding your flock. These newcomers promise to add a fresh dash of personality and charm to our already vibrant family. Join us as we share the joy, quirks, and maybe a bit of fowl play that comes with welcoming these charming little cluckers. Let’s dive into the delightful details that make our flock even more fabulous!
This Tiny Tina Tuesday, we are remembering our friend Violet who we lost a few weeks ago.
This Tiny Tina Tuesday, we gather to honor the memory of our dear friend Violet, who left us far too soon. Violet brought joy, laughter, and a unique spark to our community, making every moment spent together a cherished memory. Her adventurous spirit and infectious enthusiasm for life inspired everyone around her. As we share stories and reminisce about the cluck-tastic times we had, let’s remember Violet not just for her absence, but for the vibrant personality she shared with us. Together, we can celebrate the legacy she leaves behind, filled with love, laughter, and a touch of whimsy. Join us in this heartfelt tribute as we keep her memory alive and find comfort in our shared stories and experiences.
First time incubating our own eggs! Brahma x Prairie Bluebell
What an egg-citing adventure! This weekend, we took our first dive into the world of incubation, and let me tell you, it was a cluck-tastic experience! Out of 18 eggs, 12 little fluffballs made their grand entrance, and the joy of watching them pip their way to freedom was absolutely heartwarming. Our feathered family includes Brahma, Prairie Bluebell, and a cheeky Leghorn hen, all under the watchful eye of our Prairie Bluebell rooster. These adorable hybrids are sure to bring plenty of charm and character to our flock. If you’ve ever considered hatching your own eggs, I highly recommend it! Nothing beats the thrill of those tiny beaks breaking through the shell. So stinkin' cute, right?
Tiny Tina Tuesday
Welcome to Tiny Tina Tuesday - In Memory ❤️, a heartfelt tribute to our beloved Tiny Tina, who brought joy and laughter into our lives. This special day is dedicated to celebrating her vibrant spirit, quirky antics, and the cherished memories we created together. Whether she was clucking her way through the yard or adding a dash of mischief to our daily routines, Tiny Tina left an indelible mark on our hearts. Join us as we reminisce, share stories, and honor the feathered friend who taught us that life is better with a little whimsy and a lot of love. Let’s come together as a community to keep her memory alive, filled with laughter and warmth, just as she would have wanted.
Almost 100°… How Our Chickens Deal With the Heat 🐔☀️
When the thermometer hits almost 100°, our feathered friends face the heat with a mix of fowl play and resilience! Chickens may not have a favorite summer cocktail, but they sure know how to beat the heat in their own quirky ways. From finding shady spots to cooling off in dust baths, these charming cluckers have some egg-citing strategies up their wings. But let’s face it—keeping chickens cool can be a bit of a chicken-and-egg dilemma, especially when you’re trying to balance their comfort with your own worries. Join us as we explore the whimsical world of chickens in the summer sun, sharing tips and tricks to help your flock thrive during the hottest days of the year!
First time chicken owner confused about the gender
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken ownership! You’ve just added some feathered friends to your family, and it sounds like you’re already on a cluck-tastic adventure. It’s normal to feel a bit puzzled about gender, especially when your little ones are still growing and developing. Since you bought them from Blain's Farm & Fleet, with a 95% accuracy rate for sexing, you’re off to a great start! The advanced comb on one of your golden comets might just be an early sign of personality, but it can be confusing. Don’t worry; many new chicken owners share your curiosity—and a sprinkle of anxiety! Let’s dive into the world of combs, feathers, and friendly debates about who’s who in your coop.
help!!!
Oh no, it sounds like your beloved chicken Pop Tart is having a rough day! With one eye not fully opening, some wobbling, and an inability to eat, it’s definitely time to cluck into action. It's great that she’s still drinking, but drooling and the bump near her nose raise some red flags. Since you've already been on top of the antibiotics for Coryza, you’re doing your best to keep your flock healthy, but it's crucial to keep a close watch on her symptoms. Remember, you’re not alone in this—many chicken lovers have faced similar issues. Let’s dive into some possible next steps to help Pop Tart feel a bit more peck-tacular!
Our photographic rescue hens
Meet our cluck-tastic rescue hens, two ladies who have traded their battery cage for the love and freedom of a backyard paradise! 🐔💖 These feathered friends are proof that every chicken deserves a second chance at a happy life filled with sunshine and snuggles. Once confined and overlooked, these beautiful gals are now thriving in their new home, enjoying the great outdoors and all the tasty treats that come with it. We couldn't resist sharing this stunning photo that captures their transformation and joy. Join us in celebrating their journey from fowl play to fabulous living! Check out the link for more heartwarming stories and join the conversation in the comments. Trust us, you won't want to miss this!
Egg bound or sick?
When it comes to our feathered friends, health concerns can really ruffle our feathers! If your Plymouth is suddenly lethargic and hasn’t laid eggs in weeks, it’s natural to worry about her well-being. You initially suspected molting, which can be a seasonal issue, but her decline after the Epsom salt dip raises some red flags. While it’s important to stay calm, it’s also crucial to observe her closely. Is she eating or drinking? Is her posture improving at all? Egg binding can be serious, but other health issues may also be at play. Seeking advice from a vet who understands chickens can provide clarity and reassurance. Remember, you’re not alone in this chicken-keeping adventure—many of us share similar experiences!
Is our chicken going blind?
Is your feathered friend feeling a bit under the weather? If you've noticed your chicken acting sick and potentially struggling to see, you’re not alone! One concerned chicken parent shared their experience with a hen who seemed to have difficulty eating and kept her eyes closed, even spending a night outside the coop. Thankfully, she still has an appetite and stays hydrated! While respiratory issues were initially suspected, the absence of symptoms like a runny beak or cough suggests something else may be at play. With one eye showing limited vision and depth perception off, it's time to rally the community for insights. Join the conversation and see what fellow chicken enthusiasts think—after all, we’re in this clucking adventure together!
Roosting bars
Are your chickens giving you a run for your money when it comes to roosting? You’re not alone! Many chicken keepers, like our friend gaziantepm27, have faced the same feathered frustrations. It sounds like you’ve crafted some cozy roosting bars, but getting those clucky companions to use them can sometimes feel like herding cats—er, chickens! If your birds are squeezing into one corner rather than spreading out, it could be a sign of comfort or even a little bit of chicken drama. And yes, while Brahmas might not be high-flyers, they can still find their way to a comfy perch with a bit of encouragement. Let’s explore some tips to help your feathered friends embrace their roosting bars and make bedtime a less hands-on affair!
Grackle Air Force is back for the spring. Hawks stay clear, this is grackle country.
Spring has sprung, and the Grackle Air Force is back in action—hawk beware, this is grackle territory! Last year, I discovered the joy of leaving unshelled peanuts for these feisty feathered friends, and let me tell you, it was a cluck-tastic success! Watching them swoop and dive-bomb hawks is not only entertaining but also a true testament to their dedication in keeping our skies safe. The best part? Unlike those mischievous crows, grackles have a soft spot for our chickens, leaving them undisturbed. So, if you’re looking to add some egg-citement to your springtime routine, join me in welcoming back our grackle companions and enjoy the show as they take to the skies!
Free-range is the way to go
When it comes to raising Cornish cross meat chickens, free-ranging is where the magic happens! Many folks voice complaints about these birds being gross, messy, and unable to move, but I’ve been raising them for years and have found the opposite to be true. By letting my chicks roam free starting at three weeks old, they learn to forage alongside our other feathered friends, spending minimal time at the feeder. They behave just like any other chicken until around 8-9 weeks when they naturally slow down. We typically harvest them at 8-10 weeks for a plump, tasty bird—often around 10 pounds dressed—and I’ve never faced issues with heart or mobility. Trust me, this is the way to raise happy, healthy chickens!