chicken behavior
chicken behavior on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 66 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.
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!
I know- lay or crow… but any guesses?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken keeping! At just nine weeks into your feathered adventure, you've already stumbled upon the delightful chaos that is a straight run. With a surprisingly high rooster count from Cackle Hatchery's "crazy cackle zombie" mix, you're in for a treat! You’ve got two charming candidates, both nearing the big 9-week mark, and a third who just started showcasing his crowing talents. While none are displaying the classic rooster posturing yet, their quirky personalities shine through in their playful "get off me" antics. It's tough to think about letting any of them go, but that’s the reality of chicken life. Join the fun and share your guesses—let’s solve this clucky mystery together! 🐔✨
I need help
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! I’m reaching out for some cluck-tastic advice about one of my beloved hens. She’s a year old, but lately, she’s been looking a bit off compared to her feathered friends. Her comb has darkened, and there’s some swelling on her face with speckles. Behavior-wise, she’s been distancing herself from the roosters, puffing up in the corner, and showing unusual signs of fear around me. While she’s still interested in food and water, her spirit just doesn’t seem to shine like it used to. I’ve already isolated her, started her on vitamins and antibiotics, but she’s still pulling feathers out. I’m determined to help her thrive again, so any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
Roger Is Super Cranky Before Bed
Meet Roger, my sweet but super cranky boy! At nearly one year old, he’s a lovable little rascal who comes when called and enjoys being carted around like royalty. However, when the sun starts to set and it’s time to lock him up, his charming demeanor takes a nosedive. Suddenly, he’s pecking at my legs and flapping his wings like a feathery tornado! It’s puzzling—does he dread going back to the coop because the other chickens are pecking order bullies? Or is he experiencing a nighttime surge of testosterone? With a few years of chicken parenting under my belt, I’m curious about this quirky behavior. Join me in unraveling the mystery of Roger’s nightly antics!
Weird behavior
Hello, fellow chicken lovers! Have you ever noticed your feathered friends acting a bit... unusual? One of our community members, Arenshii, has a silkie displaying some quirky behavior that’s raising a few eyebrows. While she’s still munching and sipping like a champ, she seems to be losing her balance more often than not. This has left Arenshii scratching their head, wondering what could be causing this sudden wobble. Is it a sign of something serious, or just a temporary case of the chicken jitters? If you’ve encountered a similar situation with your own chickens or have insights to share, let’s come together and help Arenshii figure out what’s going on with their sweet silkie!
Normal Pecking order? Or too much?
Navigating the pecking order can feel like a clucky rollercoaster ride, especially when introducing your adorable 6- to 7-week-old pullets to older hens! It’s great to hear that your Easter Egger (EE) has been mostly chill, but it sounds like your buff Brahma has taken on the role of the neighborhood bully—yikes! While some pecking can be part of establishing dominance, it’s essential to differentiate between normal behavior and outright bullying. Since you’re considering keeping the babies separated for a bit longer, that’s a wise move. This will give everyone time to adjust without causing too much stress. Keep an eye on those interactions, and don’t hesitate to share updates; we’re all rooting for a harmonious coop! 🐔✨
What is this behavior called?
Have you ever watched your feathered friends engaging in what looks like a bizarre dance of scratching and preening? You might wonder, “What is this behavior called?” Is it just a routine feather-cleaning session, or could it be a sign of something more serious? Chickens, those delightful bundles of fluff, engage in a variety of behaviors that can baffle even the most seasoned poultry aficionados. From scratching the ground to fluffing their feathers, each action has a purpose and meaning behind it. So, let’s dive into the whimsical world of chicken behavior and uncover what your clucking companions are really up to. Whether they’re simply grooming or signaling something more significant, understanding these antics can deepen your bond with your flock!
What is the likelihood of having a sour crop?
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is feeling a bit under the weather! A swollen crop can indeed be concerning, especially when it's not hard to the touch and accompanied by lethargy. This could indicate a condition known as sour crop, where the crop becomes impacted or infected, leading to an accumulation of food and fluid. While it's great that you're planning a vet visit, it's important to monitor your chicken closely until then. Ensure he has access to fresh water and consider gently massaging the crop to help with any potential blockage.
I think my Serama is going blind
Meet Hazel, a delightful 5.5-year-old Serama who’s capturing hearts with her gentle spirit. Recently, her behavior has shifted, leading to concerns that she may be going blind. Despite this, Hazel continues to navigate her world with determination, finding her way to food, water, and treats—though she seems to be missing the mark occasionally when snatching at larger goodies like a whole cucumber. Her preference for staying in the run and heading to bed early adds an endearing touch to her personality. This sweet old lady loves to snuggle and be close to her flock of eight Seramas, with the oldest two reaching a grand age of seven this summer. Sharing her story reminds us how special our feathered friends can be! 🥰
Normal behavior?
Hey there, fellow chick enthusiast! It sounds like your baby chicks are displaying some adorable and curious behaviors on your lap and in your hands. Chicks often enjoy snuggling and may be seeking comfort or warmth from you. As for the dust bath idea, it’s possible they’re just testing the waters—or, in this case, the sand! While coarse sand is great for dust bathing, they might prefer a finer texture or a mix of materials to satisfy their bathing instincts. And about that feed scattering situation, try using a feeder designed to minimize spillage or one with a cover to keep their food contained. Let’s keep the conversation going and share our tips for happy, clucky lives with our feathered friends! 🐥✨