backyard chickens
backyard chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 32 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on backyard 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 backyard 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.
Introducing the newest members of our flock🥰🐔 #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #BantamCochin
## Meet the Newest Cluck-Tastic Residents of Peckington Square! 🥰🐔 Get ready for some serious cuteness overload! We’re absolutely egg-cited to introduce the newest additions to our flock: a delightful group of Bantam Cochins! These feathered friends are already bringing a whole new level of charm and personality to Peckington Square. Prepare for fluffy tail feathers, adorable waddles, and maybe a little bit of fowl play! We’re so thrilled to share these sweet personalities with you, and we invite you to join us on this cluck-tastic journey. Want a front-row seat to all the chicken city action? Check out our "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam" for a continuous look at life on the farm. Welcome to the family, little ones! #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #BantamCochin
Can Chickens Eat Celery?????
## Can Chickens Eat Celery? Let's Get to the Root of It! The question of whether chickens can eat celery is a surprisingly *egg-citing* one! The short answer? Absolutely! Celery is a nutritious and generally safe treat for your feathered friends, offering a good source of fiber and vitamins. However, moderation is key – too much can lead to… well, let's just say things might get *fowl*. While most chickens adore a crunchy snack, remember to chop the celery into manageable pieces to prevent choking. And don’t forget, a varied diet is crucial for healthy hens. For a glimpse into a truly bustling chicken community, check out our "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam" for endless entertainment and observation.
This is Tammy, she died this summer and now we only have two cream legbars
It’s always heartbreaking to say goodbye to a feathered friend. /u/HistoricalPut3667 recently shared a poignant update: Tammy has crossed the rainbow bridge this summer, leaving behind a smaller flock of two cream legbars. Losing a beloved chicken is a uniquely bittersweet experience, and we appreciate their willingness to share this moment with our community. We understand the emotional toll of these losses, and recognize that caring for chickens often involves navigating unexpected challenges. If you’ve encountered similar situations, or are seeking guidance on supporting a chicken’s well-being, you might find our article, "The Queen found her Throne," helpful. It offers insights into honoring the memory of a special hen.
New rooster time
## New Rooster Alert: Buff Orpington to the Rescue! Big news, fellow chicken enthusiasts! After a less-than-ideal relationship with my previous rooster (😬), I’m welcoming a new feathered friend to the flock: a Buff Orpington! Research consistently points to this breed as a calmer, more agreeable option for those of us who prefer not to feel like prey when venturing into the yard. But let's be honest, does *anyone* truly agree with research about rooster temperament? I’m curious – how many of you disagree? Share your experiences in the comments! For those experiencing similar broody behavior, you might find some helpful insights in our recent article, "Nearly all my hens are broody." Let the cluck-tastic rooster adventures begin!
Just told Sweetpea summer is almost over 🥹💔
Oh, the bittersweet pangs of summer’s end! We’re feeling it too, thanks to /u/Embarrassed-Stay2176’s heartfelt submission: “Just told Sweetpea summer is almost over 🥹💔.” It’s a cluck-tastic reminder that even our feathered friends notice the changing seasons. This sentiment perfectly captures the quirky love-hate relationship we all have with these sometimes-chaotic, always-entertaining creatures. We understand the emotional attachment to your flock – they become part of the family! For those wanting a constant dose of chicken city antics, be sure to check out our "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam" for a non-stop look at these vibrant personalities. Let’s embrace the cozy vibes of fall together, and cherish every egg-citing moment with our beloved chickens.
My granny has a thing for chickens and roosters.
## Granny's Coop & a Whole Lot of Cluck: Welcome to the Kitchen! Wayward_Wayfinder has unearthed a delightful situation: their granny’s passionate devotion to chickens and roosters has transformed her kitchen into a veritable haven – a "witches' brewer" of feathered delights! We're diving headfirst into this quirky corner of farm life, celebrating the joys (and potential chaos) of a chicken-centric household. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry enthusiast or simply appreciate a good laugh, you're in the right place. We’ll explore everything from coop antics to the occasional surprise visitor. Speaking of surprises, you might find our article, "Ummmm I think we have a goose in our coop," equally entertaining—it highlights just how unpredictable life can be with feathered friends!
Chick Pics
Welcome to Chick Pics, a cluck-tastic corner of Reddit for all things feathered! We're thrilled you've joined our community of chicken enthusiasts—and those still chickening out a little. As a brand new chick owner, navigating the world of Bantam breeds can feel like fowl play, especially when Google leaves you scratching your head. Don't worry, you've come to the right place! Our community thrives on shared experiences, from identifying mystery chicks to tackling tricky situations, like a roaming neighbor’s hen – as seen in /u/Redsgal19's recent post about a wandering chicken. Share your photos and questions; we're here to offer advice, share a laugh, and celebrate the egg-citing journey of chicken ownership. Let's get those breeds identified!
TSC strikes again. Any idea on the breed?
## TSC Breed Mystery: A Cluck-tastic Case of Misidentification! A recent post from /u/LabComprehensive1468 highlights a common, and delightfully frustrating, experience: trusting TSC’s breed labels. After impulsively picking up a dozen Blue Laced Golden Wyandottes, our user discovered two weren’t quite what they seemed! This raises a familiar question for chicken keepers: how can we be sure we’re getting what we pay for? It’s a reminder that even seasoned enthusiasts can fall victim to a bit of fowl play. Speaking of unexpected surprises, check out our recent article on discerning the sex of your silkies – you might be seeing things, too! Let's discuss: have you ever had a similar breed misidentification experience? Share your stories in the comments!
I just want to “talk” to whatever scaring them.
So, your chicken’s spooked, and you want to know *what* has it ruffled its feathers? We get it – sometimes our feathered friends act like tiny, panicked dictators. This query from /u/espada355 highlights a common concern: identifying the source of a chicken’s anxiety. Is it a shadow, a sound, or something else entirely? Understanding the trigger is the first step to calming your flock and restoring peace to the coop. Figuring out what’s causing the distress can be a bit like detective work, but it's *egg-citing* work! For a deeper dive into unusual chicken behavior, check out our article, "her greenness is on the water bucket," where we explore some surprising environmental factors that can unsettle our poultry pals.
New rooster in the flock 😍
## Meet the New Sheriff in Town! 😍 The flock just got a whole lot louder (and possibly more opinionated)! A huge welcome to the newest rooster, submitted by /u/SatanikRaccoon – check out the adorable photo [link]. Adding a rooster is always an *egg-citing* development, bringing fresh energy and, let's be honest, a whole new level of crowing. Are you experiencing some unexpected hen behavior now that you've added a rooster? You might find some helpful insights in our article, "Why my hen sitting on her egg attack me every time I even touch her?" It's a cluck-tastic read! We're thrilled to see our community growing and sharing their feathered friend adventures. Share your rooster introductions with us – we love seeing them!
Anyone have experience with this coop?
So, you're eyeing a PVC/metal coop for your three feathered friends – cluck-tastic choice, especially with that sale! Prefab coops can be a bit of a gamble, though, and we get the hesitation. It’s smart to be thinking ahead about predator-proofing and extending that run – a happy hen is a secure hen! The housing size *does* sound promising for three ladies. Many of our community members have faced similar decisions, and their insights are invaluable. Check out the discussion unfolding below—it's a real egg-splosion of experience! For a slightly different perspective on unexpected egg surprises, you might also find our article, "Anyone feel like peanuts?", a fun read. Let's hear what folks have to say about this coop!
I want to buy a cochinchina as my first chicken
So, you’re clucking with excitement about getting your first chicken – a Cochinchin, no less! That's egg-citing! With a family of four consuming around 4 eggs daily, let's figure out the flock size for you. We generally recommend starting with at least three chickens to ensure a consistent egg supply and provide them with the social interaction they crave. Three Cochins should comfortably meet your family's needs, and give you a few extra for baking or sharing. As a new chicken owner, prioritize a secure coop, predator-proofing, and daily health checks. Don't underestimate the importance of a dust bath area – it's chicken spa time! If you're encountering unexpected chicken behavior, our article "Help: What's happening with my chicken?" offers insights into troubleshooting common issues.
why do my chickens do this when i pet them?
## Why Do My Chickens Do *This* When I Pet Them? Ever notice your feathered friends getting…weird when you offer a gentle pat? A sudden peck, a frantic squawk, or even a full-blown flap-fest? You're not alone! This behavior, while sometimes startling, is often rooted in chicken communication and their quirky personalities. It can range from a sign of affection (yes, really!) to a display of dominance or even a request for more attention. Understanding the nuances of their reactions—a head bob, a wing lift, or a quick nip—can help you decode their "cluck-tastic" responses. Want to dive deeper into chicken antics? Check out our article, "This little shitstain attacked me mid phone call today," for a humorous look at unexpected chicken behavior!
When you’re broody but there’s cucumber snacks
## The Broody Dilemma: Cucumbers and Chicken Dreams So, your hen’s gone broody? It’s a cluck-tastic experience, but sometimes, a hen’s maternal instincts clash with, well, *everything* else. Like, say, your perfectly ripe cucumber snacks. Broodiness can be intense, and redirecting a determined hen's focus is a true test of patience! We've all been there – the unwavering stare, the protective fluffing, the sheer dedication to those eggs. It’s a beautiful, slightly chaotic, thing. This submission from /u/Stealth9erz perfectly captures that relatable struggle. Want to dive deeper into the fascinating world of broody hens? Check out our article, "If you pick up Valentina the Japanese Bantam she falls asleep," for more insights into this charming behavior.
My neighbors chicken decided to lay her eggs in my bag of Miracle Gro soil on my porch! :)
Oh, the cluck-tastic chaos of chicken ownership! Our latest submission from /u/Main-Cry1859 paints a delightfully relatable picture: a neighbor’s hen decided your Miracle Gro was the *perfect* spot for a nest! Attempts at a friendly pet were met with, understandably, some feathered flight. We've all been there, right? It’s a reminder that even the most charming feathered friends can keep us on our toes. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in navigating these fowl encounters. Sometimes, it's more than just a rogue egg-laying session—as seen in our article, "Hens with poop on their butt," where readers shared tips on dealing with messy rear ends! Check it out for more quirky chicken conundrums and community solutions.
How old do you think my Wyandottes are?
## Are Your Wyandottes Ready for Nighttime Adventures? So, you’re wondering about the age of your Wyandottes and whether they're "feathered out" enough for overnight outdoor access in temperatures around 60-65°F – a *cluck-tastic* question! Determining age can be tricky, but based on appearance, they likely range from 6-12 months. Feathering typically peaks around that timeframe. Generally, this temperature range *should* be tolerable for well-feathered Wyandottes, assuming they have a secure coop to retreat to. However, consider wind chill and potential predators. If you're still unsure about identifying your birds, check out our article, "Everyone’s favorite game: hen or roo?" for some helpful tips. Stay tuned for more egg-citing chicken wisdom!
Love this little weirdo
Meet this little weirdo – a truly unique naked neck chick! Broody moms can be *mean*, as /u/Responsible_Data7336 discovered, making a clear picture tough to capture. Despite the challenges, this chick is undeniably captivating, especially considering it's the sole survivor of a Plymouth Rock hen who, in a bit of fowl play, pilfered a clutch of eggs. We're obsessed! This heartwarming story highlights the joys and occasional frustrations of chicken keeping. Curious about creating a relaxing outdoor space for your flock? Check out our article, "Finally got their outdoor area finished to sit with them," for inspiration and a cautionary tale about rogue shovels. It's cluck-tastic!
Cleaning Peckington City Square #chickens #customcoop #hen #rooster #chickencity
## Peckington City Square: A Cluck-tastic Cleanup! #chickens #customcoop #hen #rooster #chickencity Peckington City Square has seen better days – and a whole lot more chicken droppings! We’re tackling a major cleanup of our beloved chicken city, ensuring a fresh, safe, and *cluck-tastic* environment for our feathered friends. From custom coops to roaming roosters, maintaining a vibrant space for these birds is a community effort. This project is all about creating a harmonious balance between urban living and our unique chicken population. Curious about the daily life within Peckington Square? Check out our "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam" for a peek! Stay tuned for updates as we restore this urban oasis to its full glory.
URGENT QUESTION!!!
## Urgent Help Needed: A Drenched Hen's Troubles Oh dear, a soaked and struggling hen is a truly cluck-tastic predicament! We understand you’re facing a tough situation – finding one of your backyard hens completely debilitated after a storm, and lacking the resources for a vet visit. It’s admirable you’ve already taken swift action with warmth and a nutritious diet. The return of clucking is a positive sign, but the inability to stand is concerning. While a full diagnosis requires a vet, possible causes range from shock and cold to neurological issues. Keep her warm, hydrated, and stress-free. Observe closely for any further changes. For related insights into poultry health, check out our article "Rooster doesn't crow or mate hens?" for potential parallels.
First egg!
## First Egg! A Cluck-tastic Moment! The anticipation was real! Many keepers recognize the tell-tale "egg song," and /u/Chocolateapologycake certainly did. Walking into the coop to discover a brand-new egg is a feeling unlike any other – a true milestone in the chicken-keeping journey. "Most expensive egg I’ll ever eat!" they exclaimed, and who can blame them? This fresh-laid treasure represents weeks of care and dedication. It's moments like these that solidify the joy (and occasional chaos!) of raising feathered friends. If you're new to the adventure, you might appreciate exploring our article, "Is this marcs?", which addresses potential flock health concerns – always a good thing to keep in mind! Congratulations to /u/Chocolateapologycake on this egg-citing achievement!
Waiting for her turn to lay an egg
## The Cluck Stops Here: Nesting Box Expansion! Isn’t it egg-cellent to witness the simple joys of chicken life? Right now, I’m hard at work building another nesting box – our feathered friends are patiently waiting for their turn, and I’m endlessly charmed by their quiet anticipation. It’s a cluck-tastic reminder of the natural order! Providing comfortable spaces for laying is key to happy hens, and a little extra room never hurt anyone (especially when dealing with a brood!). If you're new to the world of broody hens and baby chicks, you might find our article, "Tips for new broody chicken mama?" helpful as you navigate this exciting phase. Stay tuned for more updates on our ever-growing flock!
10 Friendliest Chicken Breeds!!!
## 10 Friendliest Chicken Breeds!!! Let's face it: chickens can be… unpredictable. But fear not, fellow fowl enthusiasts (and those tentatively dipping a toe into the chicken world)! Not all feathered friends are created equal. We’ve compiled a definitive list of the 10 friendliest chicken breeds, guaranteed to bring smiles and maybe even a few head scratches. From gentle giants to curious little fluffballs, these breeds are known for their docile temperaments and love of human interaction. Get ready to meet your new best friends! Want a front-row seat to chicken camaraderie? Check out our 24/7 livestream of Peckington Square Chicken City – it’s cluck-tastic!
My favorite chicken waterer for my flock is the omletusa insulated waterer! #OmletPartner
Keeping your feathered friends happy and hydrated is cluck-tastic business! After testing countless options, my absolute favorite chicken waterer for my flock is the Omlet USA Insulated Waterer. It’s a game-changer, especially during those scorching summer days and chilly winters, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh water. The insulation really does the trick! I’ve been so impressed with its durability and ease of cleaning – a huge win for busy chicken keepers. Want a peek at the happy hens benefiting from this setup? Check out our livestream of Peckington Square Chicken City, available 24/7! #OmletPartner
Skip settles the age old question, "Are Wyandottes noisy"?
## Are Wyandottes Noisy? Let Skip Settle the Debate! The age-old question has returned: just *how* noisy are Wyandottes? Skip’s here to deliver the unfiltered truth—what happened, when it happened, and exactly how it went down, even if you witnessed the spectacle yourself. A recent submission from /u/beepbopbippitybop2 details a ten-minute avian performance that left one hen, Midge, decidedly unimpressed, but ultimately resulted in a successful egg-laying session for all. Skip, initially concerned, thoroughly checked on the involved hen and confirmed she was perfectly fine—just a delightfully mischievous character. This lively discussion echoes similar observations about chicken quirks, like the surprisingly intelligent moments shared by many of our feathered friends, as noted in /u/MilesandTiles’ piece, "Chickens are such weird animals.