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.

What should I do?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

What should I do?

In the delightful yet nerve-wracking world of chick hatching, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and worry, especially for first-time hen Maisa and her precious little ones! It sounds like you’ve been doing your research, and it’s fantastic to hear that three lively chicks have already made their debut. Moving the heat lamp away and trusting Maisa’s natural instincts is a brave step, especially with the coop’s cozy 15 degrees Celsius. While it’s tough to lose those early hatchlings, it’s essential to remember that sometimes things just don’t go as planned. Keep an eye on the remaining eggs, and don’t hesitate to reach out for more tips! Your love and care for your feathered family shine through. 🩷🐣

Finally
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Finally

After a year of clucking chaos and charming antics, the feathered friends in my backyard have finally decided to lay some eggs! It’s been quite the rollercoaster ride, filled with moments of love, laughter, and the occasional “What on earth are you doing, girls?” But the wait is over, and I couldn’t be prouder of my little ladies! This proud chicken dad moment is a testament to the joy and surprises that come with raising chickens. Their quirky personalities and unpredictable behaviors kept me on my toes, but now, with the first eggs in hand, it feels like all those late-night worries were worth it. Who knew that these delightful creatures could bring such egg-citement into my life? Here’s to more cluck-tastic adventures ahead!

How do I make her bigger?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

How do I make her bigger?

Meet Iris, the spunky scissor beak rescue who’s captured our hearts! At seven months old, she tips the scales at just 2 pounds, a weight that’s got her on the veterinarian's radar as severely underweight. After a tough month battling a beak issue that nearly took her life, Iris is now able to eat again—thank goodness! But there's a twist: she’s not a fan of the supplements (torpedoes) meant to help her gain weight. While it’s possible she may never lay eggs due to her size, your priority is keeping her healthy and happy. So, what can be done to help her thrive? Let’s explore some egg-citing options to ensure this little lady continues to strut her stuff!

First 100% successful hatch! I'm drowning in Silkies!
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

First 100% successful hatch! I'm drowning in Silkies!

Guess what? We’ve hit the jackpot with our first 100% successful hatch, and I’m officially drowning in Silkies! Yesterday marked day 21 of our hatch, and from the 14 eggs I ordered from a fantastic Vermont breeder, all 13 that made it to lockdown have now hatched! Talk about an egg-citing surprise! After struggling with temperature issues in our old incubator on previous attempts, we finally upgraded to a reliable model, and it paid off big time. I was only expecting 5-7 chicks at most, but now I’m in full-on chick-raising mode with a delightful mix of colors—one even has a naked neck! If you’re curious about the seller, drop me a DM; she’s a total gem!

Transitioning Outdoors
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Transitioning Outdoors

Congratulations on your new feathered friends! It sounds like your Easter Eggers, Brahma, and Speckled Sussex are thriving in their cozy indoor setup. Transitioning them to the great outdoors is an exciting step, but it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit anxious—after all, you've taken on the role of a chicken parent! Given that they’re around five weeks old and enjoying their daily excursions to the run, they’re likely ready for more outdoor adventures. Chickens are quite adaptable, and even in drizzly 50°F weather, they can handle themselves with a bit of courage (and a few huddles for warmth). With your careful monitoring, it sounds like they’re on the right track to becoming full-time outdoor chickens. Keep enjoying those cluck-tastic moments!

Bunk bed chicken
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Bunk bed chicken

Get ready for a cluck-tastic adventure with the Bunk Bed Chicken, submitted by the ever-creative u/JennDG! This whimsical concept combines two beloved elements: cozy sleeping arrangements and our feathered friends. Imagine a world where chickens can safely roost above while still keeping an eye on their domain below. It’s a playful take on chicken care that’s sure to tickle your imagination and maybe even spark a few chuckles. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who’s chickening out at the thought of poultry parenting, this idea offers a delightful blend of humor and practicality. Join us as we dive into this egg-citing concept and explore how it could transform your backyard into a whimsical wonderland for your flock!

chickens

how to fix pasty butt on tiny chicks?

If you’re dealing with pasty butt in a tiny chick, don’t worry—you're not alone in this clucky conundrum! Pasty butt, characterized by a sticky accumulation around the vent, can be a concern for new chick owners, especially when your feathered friend is on the smaller side. Many savvy chicken parents have resorted to creative solutions, like using a container with a hole for the chick's head to soak its rear, but this method might be tricky with such a tiny chick. Instead, a gentle washcloth soaked in warm water can work wonders. Dabbing the affected area with the cloth helps soften the blockage without causing harm. Remember, patience is key—your little buddy will be back to peeping and flapping in no time!

I thought for sure it wouldnt have a yolk
chickens

I thought for sure it wouldnt have a yolk

Have you ever cracked open an egg and been greeted by the teeniest yolk you ever did see? This delightful conundrum has left many of us scratching our heads and chuckling at the quirks of our feathered friends. In a world where we expect a hefty yolk to accompany our breakfast, it can be quite the surprise when we find ourselves face-to-face with something that looks more like a tiny, egg-citing experiment gone wrong. Join us as we dive into this cluck-tastic mystery and explore the whimsical world of miniature yolks. From the fascinating reasons behind these pint-sized wonders to the humorous tales they inspire, let’s celebrate the charming unpredictability of chicken life together!

Falling chick
chickens

Falling chick

Ever watched your Easter Egger chick prance around like a tiny feathered tornado, only to suddenly flop onto her right side? It’s a puzzling sight, and you're not alone in wondering what’s going on! While she seems to be enjoying her chick life—eating, drinking, and playing with her flock—this occasional tumble can raise some cluck-tastic questions. There could be various reasons behind this quirky behavior, from simple fatigue to potential health concerns. It’s essential to observe her closely and consider the environment she’s in. Let’s dive into the possible explanations for her little flops and explore how you can ensure your feathered friend stays healthy and happy. Don't worry; we’ll tackle this with humor and care!

More dirt baths
chickens

More dirt baths

Have you ever watched your feathered friends take a dirt bath and wondered, “What on earth are they doing?” Well, you’re not alone! Chickens, including popular breeds like Leghorns, ISAs, Australorps, and Rhode Islands, have a quirky penchant for rolling around in the dirt. This playful behavior isn’t just for show; it serves several vital purposes. Dirt baths help keep their feathers clean and free from pesky parasites, while also allowing them to regulate body temperature. Plus, it’s a fun way for chickens to socialize and express their natural instincts! So, the next time you see your chickens enjoying a cluck-tastic spa day, remember: it’s all part of their quirky charm! Let’s dive deeper into this delightful chicken ritual.

Uncommon but not unusual?
chickens

Uncommon but not unusual?

Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken dynamics! It sounds like you’ve found yourself in a cluck-tastic situation with two of your feathered friends deciding to share a Very Favorite egg box. While it might seem a bit unusual, it’s not unheard of for broody hens to cozy up together, especially in a space they both adore. With four chickens in the mix, the bickering for top chicken status adds an extra layer of drama to your coop. Managing multiple broody hens can be a fun challenge, and it’s a great opportunity to observe their quirky behaviors. Let’s dive into this delightful scenario and explore the ins and outs of your broody duo and their egg-citing antics!

Mystery chicken
chickens

Mystery chicken

Meet our latest feathered enigma! A mystery chicken has waltzed into our lives, and we’re scratching our heads trying to identify this adorable little one. Found on someone’s land, this young chick has a sweet baby voice and a penchant for cozying up to our oldest hen, proving that age is just a number in the chicken world. Sporting grayish-tan feathers and a double comb, it’s a puzzler that doesn’t quite match any chick we’ve seen online. So, we’re turning to our cluck-tastic community for help! Can anyone shed light on this little mystery? We’re eager to hear your thoughts on its breed or sex. Join the conversation and let’s crack this chicken conundrum together!

chickens

Old chicken help - aging or illness?

Is your beloved Bluebell Hybrid hen feeling more like a puffed-up sphere than the lively top hen she used to be? At four years old, she’s in her golden years, and it’s natural to worry when her egg-laying routine goes awry. After a winter molt and a promising start to laying, the gaps between eggs are widening, leaving her less enthusiastic about food and activity. You’ve done your homework, checking for worms, lesions, and even mites, and her overall health seems stable. But is it just a case of old age, or could there be something more concerning at play? Join the conversation as we explore the quirks of geriatric chickens and share experiences to help ensure she enjoys a well-deserved retirement.

Chicken enrichment
chickens

Chicken enrichment

If you’re looking to spice up your chickens' lives, consider the cluck-tastic idea of introducing live crickets into their run! This form of enrichment not only offers your feathered friends a fun and engaging activity, but it also provides a nutritious snack that can keep them hopping with excitement. Have any of you brave souls tried this before? I’d love to hear your experiences and tips! Remember, introducing new elements can be a bit of a wild ride, so it’s great to share insights within our community. And just for fun, here's a bonus picture of my lovely lady, Midnight, who I’m sure would be thrilled to join in on the cricket hunt! Let’s get those feathers ruffled with some fowl play!

chickens

Just lost our second chicken this month, why the fuck is life like this

Life can be a real clucker sometimes, especially when we lose our beloved feathered friends. Losing Puffin just minutes ago, right after losing Beatris earlier this month, feels like a heavy blow to the heart. It's tough to understand why our chickens, who bring us so much joy, seem so fragile. With one of our other girls showing symptoms, we're getting a necropsy to find some answers. In the midst of this sadness, I’m holding onto Puffin’s feathers, determined to create something special in her memory. If you’ve got any ideas for charms I could make with her feathers, I’d love to hear them! Let’s celebrate our girls and keep their spirits alive, one quirky charm at a time.

She wanted chicken soup
chickens

She wanted chicken soup

In the whimsical world of chicken lovers, one brave soul, u/Fickle_Ad_2112, yearned for the ultimate comfort dish: chicken soup. This delightful submission captures the cluck-tastic journey of craving a warm, hearty bowl while navigating the humorous complexities of chicken ownership. From the cozy kitchen aromas to the feathered friends that inspire culinary creativity, this story invites readers to relish the charming chaos of chicken life. It’s not just about the soup; it’s about the laughter, the love, and perhaps a sprinkle of madness that comes with keeping these quirky creatures. So, grab your favorite spoon and prepare to dive into a tale that blends humor with heartfelt nostalgia, making you appreciate every slurp of that egg-citing chicken soup!

chickens

Update on weird eye chick

Big news from the coop! Our quirky little eye-challenged chick is still kicking after a week of TLC. After giving her goopy eye a good wipe-down, it seems she’s still dealing with some irritation or itchiness, leading her to scratch at it now and then. Thankfully, despite her occasional fussiness, it doesn’t appear to bother her too much overall. The rest of the flock is looking as healthy as ever, with no signs of sickness or any other weirdness. If anyone has ideas on what might be causing this persistent eye issue or tips for keeping her comfortable, we’d love to hear your cluck-tastic insights! Let's rally together to ensure our feathered friend stays happy and healthy!

Sleepy baby going to sleep while dust bathing
chickens

Sleepy baby going to sleep while dust bathing

In a delightful display of cuteness, we find a sleepy baby chicken settling down for a well-deserved nap—right in the middle of a dust bath! This charming scene unfolds as our feathered friend takes the concept of relaxation to a whole new level. With tiny wings folded and soft fluff gently ruffled by the dust, this little one embodies the perfect blend of tranquility and whimsy. Dust bathing is more than just a quirky chicken habit; it’s a vital part of their grooming routine, allowing them to keep their feathers in tip-top shape while also enjoying a cozy snooze. Who knew that a simple dust bath could be the ultimate bedtime ritual? Join us in sharing this egg-citing moment of pure cuteness!

Love baby chicks
chickens

Love baby chicks

Get ready for an egg-citing adventure as we dive into the adorable world of baby chicks! In this charming submission by u/WEEEEKENDHENK, you'll be treated to a delightful showcase of fluffy little friends, all captured through the lens of a camera. These pint-sized bundles of joy are not just feathered cuties; they embody the whimsical charm that can make any chicken enthusiast's heart flutter. With a playful twist, WEEEEKENDHENK takes us on a visual journey, blending humor and vulnerability as they share their experiences with these chirpy companions. So, prepare to cluck with delight and perhaps even chuckle at the antics of these baby chicks. Click the link to join in on the fun and share your own love for these feathered friends!

In case you were wondering about ms. Houlihen
chickens

In case you were wondering about ms. Houlihen

In case you were wondering about Ms. Houlihen, we’ve got the scoop just for you! Submitted by the curious and ever-inquisitive u/Key_Attempt_5450, this delightful piece dives into the quirky world surrounding Ms. Houlihen and her feathered friends. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who finds themselves chickening out at the mere thought of these clucking companions, this exploration promises to be both enlightening and entertaining. Expect a blend of humor, relatable anecdotes, and perhaps a few egg-citing revelations about Ms. Houlihen’s adventures with her poultry pals. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and prepare for a cluck-tastic read that will leave you both chuckling and nodding in understanding!

My Rooster Cluck Norris
chickens

My Rooster Cluck Norris

Meet Cluck Norris, the rooster with a heart of gold and a goofy personality that steals the show! This Welsummer-Leghorn mix is not your typical feathered friend—he’s the gentle giant of the coop, never attacking anyone in his entire life. Instead, he brings joy and laughter to those around him with his playful antics. Cluck Norris embodies the whimsical charm of chicken ownership while proving that roosters can be sweet and silly, not just loud and proud. Whether he's strutting his stuff or getting into light-hearted mischief, Cluck Norris reminds us all that there's more to chickens than just clucking and pecking. Join the fun and appreciate this lovable rooster’s unique quirks that make him a true barnyard superstar!

Assuming position! We love it when you guys draw her 😸 thank you so much! I keep al the drawings!
chickens

Assuming position! We love it when you guys draw her 😸 thank you so much! I keep al the drawings!

Assuming position! We absolutely adore when you all take the time to draw our feathered friend! Your creativity brings such joy, and it warms our hearts to see the unique interpretations of our quirky chicken. Thank you so much for sharing your artistic talents with us! Each drawing is a delightful addition to our collection, and I keep all of them safe and sound. They remind me of the wonderful community we’ve built together, filled with laughter, creativity, and a little bit of madness. So, keep those cluck-tastic creations coming! We can’t wait to see what you come up with next. Check out the submissions and join the conversation in the comments. Your art truly makes our day!

Someone wants babies
chickens

Someone wants babies

It’s that cluck-tastic time of year when one of our feathered friends is fully embracing her inner mama hen! After hoarding eggs for the past two days, she’s officially in broody mode, ready to embark on the exciting journey of motherhood. I dashed in during her snack time to mark the 12 precious eggs she’s claimed, setting the stage for a thrilling countdown to hatch day. Will her dreams of chicks become a reality? The anticipation is palpable, and I can’t wait to share this egg-citing adventure with all of you. Stay tuned as we witness the magic of life unfold, one egg at a time! Let the countdown begin! [link] [comments]

Chicken behavior in a game I'm working on
chickens

Chicken behavior in a game I'm working on

Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken behavior in our upcoming game! Here, we dive cluck-first into the delightful antics of our feathered friends, showcasing their quirky personalities and hilarious habits. From their unpredictable pecking patterns to their amusing attempts at socialization, each chicken adds a unique flavor to the gameplay. Players will encounter situations that capture the essence of chicken life—think fowl play, unexpected egg-citing moments, and the occasional hilarious chicken chase. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry pro or just a curious onlooker, our game invites you to embrace the charm and chaos of chicken behavior. Get ready for an egg-citing adventure that promises to ruffle your feathers in the most delightful way! Join us in this playful exploration of our beloved cluckers!