chicken behavior
chicken behavior on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 75 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on chicken behavior 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 chicken behavior, 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.
Supposedly a midnight majesty
Welcome to the curious case of the supposedly midnight majesty! When you first got this little feathered friend, you likely envisioned a stunning hybrid of Black Copper Marans and Barred Rocks. However, the unfolding drama of comb development, saddle feathers, and some rather dominant behavior suggests that you might be dealing with a rooster rather than a hen. Is it true that roosters sport the classic barred plumage for this breed? Or could your bird be an entirely different mix? With chickens, surprises are always just a cluck away! If you’re looking for more chicken-related chuckles, check out our article “Chilling,” where we dive into the quirky antics of these feathered companions. Let’s unravel this mystery together!
A word of caution…
A word of caution: chickens are weird, and their quirky antics can leave you scratching your head. Take my lavender Orpingtons, for example—they share a single brain cell, much like those orange cats we all know and love. Recently, one of “the grays” stood against the new fencing, staring across the driveway like she was contemplating life’s mysteries. I figured she was just being her goofy self, but a closer look revealed something more concerning. After some feather trimming, I discovered she had a Velcro plant stay wrapped around her body, completely hidden from view. Even the silliest birds have a way of signaling when they need help! For more chicken capers, check out "Chicken attacked by raccoon" for a dose of poultry drama.
Vent Gleet or Water Belly?
Hello, fellow chicken lovers! Today I found myself in a bit of a cluck-tastrophe with one of my 11-month-old hens. While cleaning the run, I noticed her vent area looking inflamed and a tad squishy, which initially made me think the other hens were up to some fowl play. She's been acting totally normal—eating, drinking, and even laying eggs—so I’m scratching my head about the reddish bum and the mysterious yolk on the eggs in the nesting box. Is this a case of Vent Gleet or something else entirely? I’ve already given her a warm Epsom salt bath and separated her for now. What’s the best course of action moving forward?
my rooster passed away 😞
It’s never easy to lose a feathered friend, and my heart goes out to you as you share the news of Waffle’s passing. Your sweet boy brought so much joy into your life, from snuggling on your shoulders to gently pecking at your hair. It’s clear he was more than just a rooster; he was the spark that ignited your love for chickens. The suddenness of his departure, without any signs of distress, adds an extra layer of heartache. But just imagine him now, happily pecking at all the bugs on the other side of the rainbow bridge, surrounded by endless sunshine. If you’re looking for a little distraction, check out “Who wants dried worms for breakfast?
Yolko - Nest in Peace
Meet Yolko, the once-bullied hen who transformed into a nurturing leader of the flock. Six years ago, she came into our lives alongside her partner, Clementine, and I must admit, she didn’t start off as my favorite. However, as Clem's health declined, Yolko revealed a sweet and protective side that melted my heart. After Clementine's passing, Yolko matured into a confident head hen, guiding her flock—especially Drizzle—with kindness, save for the occasional playful peck. Her “Yolko yolks” were always a delight, producing large, tasty eggs that became a favorite in our kitchen. It’s hard to believe that this spirited, friendly chicken is now gone. As we say goodbye, we remember her legacy: a true feathered friend. Nest in peace, Yolko.
Pullets Burying Eggs
Have you ever walked into your coop and found your eggs mysteriously buried? That’s the curious case of my eight older hens, who lay about four to five eggs daily in their nesting boxes. Lately, six pullets, just 13 weeks old, have joined the party, and I suspect they’re the culprits behind the egg-burying antics. While the older gals soak up the sun outside, these little ones cozy up in the nesting boxes, guilty as charged when they hear the crack of corn. It’s amusing—digging through their makeshift nests to find the eggs is a bit of a treasure hunt!
Observation / question regarding behavior and ovarian cancer
In the whimsical world of chicken-keeping, it’s always a cluck-tastic adventure—until it takes a heartbreaking turn. One of our community members, u/IllegalGeriatricVore, recently faced the tough reality of ovarian cancer in their flock. After losing a feisty bully and now dealing with another diagnosed hen, they’re left wondering if there's a pattern in these behaviors before illness strikes. Has anyone else noticed similar trends among their feathered friends? This is an important conversation, as understanding our chickens' health can lead to better care. If you're curious about chicken personalities, you might enjoy our piece on chicken names, where fellow enthusiasts share their naming adventures. Join the discussion and let’s uncover these mysteries together!
Psycho Sharon granted supervised yard time for good behavior.
Psycho Sharon, affectionately known as Sharon Bitchardson Johnson, was granted a much-anticipated two hours of supervised yard time today in the covered septagon by the pool. After two weeks of dedicated therapy, Sharon showcased her progress—albeit with a dash of chicken drama. Upon seeing grass for the first time in what felt like an eternity, she dove into a wild dust bath, clucking with joy. However, her bliss was briefly interrupted by a rogue hawk gang, notorious for their Friday escapades. With her sunshade securely in place to deter escape, Sharon continued her dusting, appearing quite content and "normal." If this good behavior persists, she might be free tomorrow—though equipped with LED lighted leg bands for extra safety.
Protesters and Supporters gather near Psycho Sharons holding cell
In a cluck-tastic display of sisterly solidarity, protesters and supporters gathered near Psycho Sharon’s holding cell, marking the second day of silence from her egg-laying sisters. Normally a carefree crew demanding treats, today they assembled outside the pool area with a mission: to express their discontent over Sharon’s recent antics. With darting glances and occasional squawking outbursts, the feathered friends seemed unified in their disdain—except for that one chicken who was clearly daydreaming. The matriarch, Jackie, voiced her frustrations, threatening a feathery showdown upon Sharon’s release. Meanwhile, Psycho Sharon herself remained unfazed, tossing her food container with prehistoric squawks. For more on the emotional rollercoaster of chicken life, check out our article, "🐔 98° in Phoenix… POOL DAY for the Chickens! 😎💦."
My Sweet Missy and Sheldon
Meet Missy and Sheldon, my delightful leghorns who have turned every expectation upside down! Contrary to the flighty reputation of their breed, these girls have proven to be the sweetest companions. I initially worried about their wings and potential for escape, but they’ve stayed happily within the yard, making my “Goldilocks area” feel like chicken paradise. Their personalities blossomed after a scare with Coccidiosis, turning them into my affectionate little shadows. With every peck and playful run for treats, they’ve shown me the charm of leghorns—more broody and endearing than I ever imagined. If you're curious about the quirks of chicken companionship, check out our post on "chicken cuddles in pyjamas" for more heartwarming tales! 🩷🐔
Love when my favorite girl comes to me for some lap snuggles 🥰
There's nothing quite like the joy of a lap snuggle from my favorite girl, Henrietta! After a day filled with her signature squawking in the coop—typical behavior for our resident screamer—she finally made her way to me for some much-needed cuddles. I always joke with my kids that she’s just calling out for her mama (that’s me, of course!). When my husband let the flock free-range this afternoon, Henrietta wasted no time finding her way to my lap, interrupting my yard work for a moment of pure love. Once her love cup was filled, she happily rejoined her pals, leaving the screaming behind. If you're curious about other chicken antics, check out "New noise from Rooster" for more cluck-tastic tales! 🥰
is this average chicken behavior as a complete newbie of chicken ownership?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken ownership! If you’re feeling a bit puzzled about your feathered friends' behaviors, you’re not alone. Many new chicken owners find themselves in a cluck-tastically confusing situation, wondering if what they’re witnessing is just average chicken antics or something more peculiar. Fear not! Understanding chicken behavior is part of the fun and charm of this quirky adventure. Plus, identifying your chicken’s species can add an extra layer of excitement to your journey. Whether your chicken is a lively Leghorn, a charming Cochin, or a sassy Silkie, each breed brings its unique flair and personality. So, let’s dive into the delightful world of chicken behavior to help you feel more confident and connected with your flock!
My rooster wobbles his head, does anyone know why?
Hey there, chicken lovers! 🐔💖 Have you ever noticed your feathered friend doing a little head wobble? One rooster in a new flock is raising some curious eyebrows with his charming quirk. This gentle guy, at two years old, has been wobbling his head his entire life, and it seems to be his only unusual behavior. While it’s not uncommon for chickens to have their own delightful idiosyncrasies, understanding the reason behind this wiggle can help ensure your rooster stays happy and healthy. So, if you have insights or experiences with head-wobbling roosters, let’s cluck about it! Share your thoughts and help this new chicken parent decode the mystery of their sweet, kind rooster. 🐓✨ [link] [comments]
Is this normal behavior?
Is your little chick indulging in some cluck-tastic dust bathing? You’re not alone in wondering if this behavior is normal. At just two weeks old, your feathered friend is likely honing her skills in the fine art of dust bathing—a delightful ritual that helps keep her feathers clean and free of pesky pests. Five minutes might seem a bit excessive, but chicks often get caught up in the joy of it all! Meanwhile, it sounds like the other chicks are having a ball with those shavings, adding a comical twist to the scene. Don’t fret; providing sand next week will only enhance their dust-bathing adventures. Embrace the quirky antics of your chicks—after all, they’re just being their playful selves!
Is this normal behavior?
Is your little chick indulging in a dust bath marathon? Fear not! It sounds like she’s just embracing her inner diva, perfecting the art of dust bathing—an essential chicken ritual that keeps their feathers clean and fabulous. At just two weeks old, she’s likely experimenting with this delightful behavior, and five minutes of dust bathing is quite normal for a curious chick! The fact that her fellow feathered friends are having a blast picking shavings off her just adds to the fun. Planning to introduce sand next week is egg-citing news that will surely elevate her bathing experience! So, sit back and enjoy the show; your chicks are just being their playful selves!
Hen or Roo?
When it comes to identifying whether you have a hen or a rooster among your 10-12 week old Easter Eggers, the journey can be a bit of a cluck-tastic mystery! It sounds like you’re already noticing signs that have you scratching your head. With four Easter Eggers out of six, it’s natural to wonder about that lanky body type and those longer, greenish tail feathers. While no behavior suggests it’s a roo just yet, these physical traits can be telling. Fear not, though—this is all part of the whimsical adventure of chicken-keeping! Whether you end up with a feathered friend or an unexpected crowing companion, embracing the quirks of your flock is what makes this experience truly egg-citing. Happy chicken watching!
Scalped chick medical care
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friends are experiencing some serious fowl play! Scalping in chickens, especially among Polish breeds known for their fabulous feathers, can be alarming and distressing. It's puzzling when a peaceful flock suddenly turns into a pecking party, leaving your poor Polish in a precarious situation. First things first, it’s essential to assess the severity of the injury. If the scalped area is bleeding or looks infected, you may need to consult a vet for more specialized care. In the meantime, continue treating the wounds with a suitable antiseptic spray, and consider separating the injured chicken from the flock until it heals.
7ish weeks…
Ah, the chicken conundrum strikes again! At about 7 weeks, it seems like little Peep might be strutting down a path that leads to a not-so-permanent residency. With that wide-set, hot pink comb, signs are pointing toward a potential cockerel status. Out of the nine, most of your feathered friends boast that charming “U” shape comb, alongside some playful sparring behavior—classic boy chicken antics! Those three white ones are also getting a bit of color on their combs, but Peep's vibrant hue stands out like a sore thumb. It’s a tough spot to be in, especially when you wish you could keep them all. Here’s hoping for a few surprises that might let you enjoy your flock just a little longer! 🐔❤️
2 hens won’t leave nesting box
Are your feathered friends turning into nesting box hermits? You’re not alone! Many chicken keepers encounter similar quirks in their hens, especially when they notice two out of three of their gold chickens spending almost all their time in the nesting boxes. This behavior can be perplexing, especially since they seem healthy and typically enjoy human interaction. It’s important to remember that chickens can have fluctuating moods and comfort levels, which may explain their nervousness and reluctance to leave the nests. With your other hens roaming and exploring freely, it raises some questions about what’s going on with your gold girls. Let’s dive into this cluck-tastic conundrum and explore some possible reasons behind their cozy box obsession!
Normal Silkie chick behavior
Welcome to the whimsical world of Silkie chicks, where personalities bloom alongside soft feathers! It sounds like your little feathered friends are navigating the classic chick hierarchy, which often includes playful squabbles and the occasional tussle. Silkie chicks can be quite social, but they also establish their pecking order through these antics. The fact that they snuggle together at night shows they have a bond, even if they get a bit rowdy during the day. To keep their spirits high and boredom at bay, consider adding more stimulating toys or activities, like treat-dispensing puzzles or space for exploration. Remember, a little fowl play among friends is perfectly normal in the chick world! Keep an eye on their dynamics, and enjoy this cluck-tastic adventure!
Do your chickens run to you?
Do your chickens run to you when you step outside? It’s a heartwarming sight that many chicken owners, like our friend GladStatistician3895, experience. The moment they see you at the door, their excitement is palpable as they scramble toward you with their little feet flapping—and let’s be honest, it’s utterly adorable! This joyful reaction is not just a random quirk; it’s actually a typical flock behavior. Chickens are social creatures, and they quickly learn to associate you with food, safety, and companionship. So, if your feathered friends are racing to greet you, know that they’re showing love in their own clucky way. Join the conversation and share your own experiences with these delightful birds!
dumb hen: possibly a neurological or mobility issue?
Hey there, feathered friends enthusiasts! Today, I’m reaching out for a little cluck-tastic insight on my “dumb” chicken—she's finally discovered mealworms, but there's a quirky twist! It seems she only goes for them when they're all huddled together in the bucket. When I scatter them on the ground or hide them in the grass, she either ignores them or pecks at the ground around them, as if they’ve gone incognito! She eats from the feeder just fine, but foraging seems to be a real challenge. I’m starting to wonder if there's a neurological issue at play or perhaps a problem with her depth perception. Sadly, I don’t have any chicken-savvy vets nearby.
Two Brooding Hens
Welcome to the whimsical world of brooding hens, where drama unfolds alongside adorable fluff! In this feathered saga, we have two dedicated hens sharing the spotlight for the first time, with one proud mama already welcoming a chick to the mix. However, not all eggs are created equal—one little egg seems to be taking its sweet time hatching, leading to some fowl squabbles as the hens tussle over the adorable newcomer. The burning question is whether replacing the unhatched egg with a different chick overnight could restore harmony, or if our feisty hens will continue their antics, clucking and squabbling over their precious little one. Let’s dive into this clucky conundrum and explore the best way to keep the peace in this quirky coop!
Is the behavior concerning?
Welcome to the world of chick care, where every peep can be a cause for concern! It sounds like you’re navigating some clucky challenges with your new feathered friends. After losing one chick and noticing another displaying lethargy and odd behavior—like hawk sitting and being unresponsive away from the heat source—it’s understandable to feel worried. Your proactive approach with yolk and vitamins is commendable, and it’s great to hear she’s made a turnaround after getting some warmth. However, the pecking behavior from her broodmates raises questions about their dynamics. Is it curiosity or bullying? Your instinct to consider separating her is wise, especially if she’s vulnerable. Let’s dive into some husbandry tips and behavior norms to help ensure your chicks thrive!