chicken breeds
chicken breeds on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 334 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on chicken breeds 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 breeds, 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 kind of breed is he?
## Decoding This Dapper Bantam: Breed ID Help Needed! Y'all know the feeling – you’re smitten with a feathered friend, but their breed remains a delightful mystery! Our community member /u/TraditionOverall1411 is hoping you can lend your expertise to identify this charming bantam. While we know he’s a bantam, pinpointing the exact breed has proven tricky. Bantams are cluck-tastic little bundles of personality, and identifying them can be egg-citing! Perhaps you've encountered a similar-looking bird before? Check out our article, "Just showing off some chickens <3," for a glimpse at a diverse flock and maybe a helpful clue. Share your guesses and insights in the comments below – let's crack this case together!
One hen won’t lay eggs
## The Case of the Silent Hen: A Cluck-tastic Mystery! So, one of your feathered friends has decided to take a break from egg-laying? You’re not alone! It’s a common conundrum for chicken keepers, and we’re here to help you crack the case. /u/imhereforthesnax is facing just this: a hen who’s gone quiet, even after diligent mite, worm, and nutrient checks. The rooster’s lost interest too – a curious detail! You’ve ruled out secret nesting spots with clever experiments, so what *could* be the culprit? We’ll explore potential reasons for this sudden silence, from molting to underlying health issues, offering practical troubleshooting steps to get your hen back on track.
Abandoned Chick
Meet Abandoned Chick, a truly *cluck-tastic* little mystery! Found wandering solo on a street, this sweet chick’s origins are largely unknown—though we suspect a Brahma lineage, given its appearance. Currently super-imprinted on humans, it’s a devoted shadow, happily foraging nearby as long as we’re present. We’ve dewormed and given a mite check, and thankfully, it shows no initial interest in our existing flock of seven chickens, which we plan to introduce gradually via a separate enclosure. Determining age and, crucially, sex remains a priority—roosters aren't permitted here, so fingers crossed for a lovely hen! If you're curious about chicken breed identification in general, check out our article, "What kind of breed is he?". We're hoping our community can help us unlock this little one's story.
Returning with (hopefully) better pics of my chicken; hen or roo?
## Is It a Hen or a Roo? Decoding a Buff Orp Mystery! Our community is buzzing with a delightful dilemma! /u/Fickle_Blueberry2777 is seeking help identifying a particularly large Buff Orp chicken with remarkably curly tail feathers – a telltale sign that *could* indicate a rooster. We've all been there, puzzling over our feathered friends! Size discrepancies and unique plumage often spark this kind of debate, and we're here to lend a cluck-tastic hand. If you're new to Buff Orps, as /u/Fickle_Blueberry2777 is, it can be tricky to spot the subtle differences. For those seeking further insights into flock dynamics, check out our recent article, "My flock’s band photo," for a fun look at group portraits.
Name that breed!!!
## Name That Breed!!! – A Mystery Rooster Arrives! A stunning, solitary rooster has ruffled feathers – and fences – across one of our community member’s properties! /u/Tasty_One_8299 is seeking our collective wisdom to identify this handsome newcomer, who’s demonstrated impressive persistence in his quest for companionship. From neighborly visits to bush-dwelling escapades, he finally made himself right at home over the fence! His most striking feature? Those deep violet-sheened black tail feathers. While likely a barnyard mix, we're eager to hear your guesses! Could it be a Dominique, a Buckeye, or something else entirely? Share your thoughts in the comments below! For more insights on coop management, check out our recent article, "Mites do not give AF about DE…"
my little parrot <33
Meet our little parrot, the feathered enigma that has us all scratching our heads! We’re still on the hunt for clues about their gender and breed, so if you’re a parrot expert—or just love a good guessing game—join us in the fun! This little one has already stolen our hearts with their quirky antics and adorable chirps. It’s a wild ride of mystery and merriment, and we can’t wait to see what surprises they have in store for us. If you’re in need of some chicken wisdom while we figure out our parrot pal, check out "I've got a mean girl, tips to change her attitude please" for some cluck-tastic insights! Let’s uncover the secrets of our feathered friends together!
My easter eggers are insane.
Oh, the delightful chaos of Easter Eggers! It sounds like your feathered friends have taken a page straight from the Looney Tunes playbook—fast, flighty, and a bit nutty! While these mixed-breed chickens are bred more for their colorful eggs than their calm temperaments, it’s not uncommon for them to be a little wild. You’re not alone in wondering how to socialize them better; many chicken enthusiasts face similar challenges. Handling them consistently is key, but it can be a test of patience when they seem more like roadrunners than cuddly companions. At least they have those charming tufted foreheads to keep things entertaining! And hey, if you’re grappling with egg production as well, check out “Chickens eating eggs” for some insights. Happy clucking!
Just sleepy or something wrong?
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! It sounds like you’re navigating the delightful yet perplexing world of chick care with your Sicilian buttercup. After just six days together, it’s understandable to be concerned about her sudden sleepiness and droopy wings. Chickens can be a bit like toddlers—sometimes they just need a good nap! However, keeping an eye on her behavior is crucial, especially after her pasty butt ordeal. If her alertness fluctuates or if you notice anything else concerning, it might be worth checking in with a vet. For more insights, you might find our article “Is this a meat chicken?” helpful, especially if you’re curious about growth patterns among chicks. Let’s keep those feathered friends happy and healthy!
My rooster... 'finishes' EVERY time I pick him up.
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken antics, where my rooster has taken center stage with a rather *cluck-tastic* quirk! Meet my young Bielefelder, who has a penchant for, shall we say, “finishing” every time I pick him up. It’s a bizarre combination of surprise and hilarity, as he experiences an unexpected eruption of excitement the moment I touch his legs. Having dealt with some overly amorous roosters in the past, this behavior is certainly a first for me! With no hens around to keep him company, it’s been a wild ride trying to find him a suitable home. If you’re curious about other chicken shenanigans, don’t miss the story about “Anyone buy this for their chickens?” for more feathered fun!
Do you think my black Australorp could actually be a Jersey giant?
Are you scratching your head over whether your feathered friend, Raven, is a black Australorp or possibly a Jersey Giant? It's a cluck-tastic question! While it’s common for Tractor Supply to label chicks accurately, size can certainly throw a wrench into the identification process. If Raven towers over your Barred Rock rooster by a couple of inches and boasts a broader build, he might just be a surprise package in the chicken world! Size differences can arise from varying genetics or even mixed breeding, so don’t worry too much. For more insights into the delightful quirks of chicken ownership, check out our article on "What is it like owning Polish chickens." Let's unravel this chicken mystery together!
Can somebody tell me what breed of chicken these are?
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! 🐔 Have you ever found yourself staring at a flock, scratching your head and wondering, “What breed are those feathered friends?” Well, you’re in luck! User /u/Alani2014 has just posted a delightful inquiry for all of us to dive into. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken whisperer or someone who just appreciates their quirky charm (or maybe even feels a bit chicken about getting too close), this is the place to share your wisdom! And if you’re curious about chicken health, don’t miss our article "Is this wry neck?" where we explore the challenges that can come with caring for our beloved birds. Let’s crack this mystery together! 🥚✨
What chicken breed are these stray chickens
Have you ever stumbled upon a gang of stray chickens and wondered about their origins? Well, you're not alone! In this delightful exploration, we dive into the curious case of a stray hen that has laid standard grocery-store-sized white eggs. With her feathered friends roaming freely, we’ll uncover the possible breeds behind this unexpected chicken congregation. Are they just a bunch of clucky misfits or is there a deeper story here? And speaking of unexpected encounters, check out our article titled “I think my chickens are trying to get me arrested,” where one chicken keeper found a hawk in their run! Join us as we crack the mystery and share some egg-citing insights into these wandering birds.
What breed is this bonus chick
What could that bonus chick be? If it’s the only meat bird flaunting a stripe down its back, you might just have a delightful surprise on your hands! Many chicken enthusiasts often wonder about the mysterious breeds that pop up in their orders, and this little feathered friend could be an exciting addition to your flock. With its unique marking, it could very well be a breed like the Cornish Cross, known for its meaty frame and distinctive appearance. If you’re curious about your new companion, don’t hesitate to dive deeper into chicken breeds! And speaking of delightful discoveries, check out "My favorite part of the morning," where we explore the joy of letting our chicks roam in their backyard. Happy chicken keeping!
Hen or rooster? Its breed?
Are you scratching your head over whether your spirited little chick is a hen or a rooster? This cheeky bundle of energy, which you rescued from the roadside, has already made a splash with its speedy antics! At about three weeks old, it’s not just adorable but also a mystery waiting to be solved. Knowing the breed could help you understand its personality and care needs better. If you're curious to dive deeper into chicken breeds or sorting out the gender of your feathered friends, check out our article “8 Week Ameraucana.” Join the conversation in our community and let’s unravel this feathered enigma together!
I need a name for this girl
Meet our lovely broody girl, a feathered beauty whose breed remains a mystery! With her stunning plumage and sweet disposition, she’s become a fluffy orb of love, especially when you gently lift her off her precious eggs. It’s hard not to feel a twinge of sympathy as she gazes up with those wide, traumatized eyes! After a little weekend getaway, she’ll be ready to embark on the exciting journey of hatching some adorable chicks. But first, she needs the perfect name to match her charm! If you’re in need of some inspiration, check out our article "My favourite girl in the flock - candy corn polish" for a delightful peek at the sweet personalities our feathered friends can have!
am i just maternal, or do i have the most beautiful chick i’ve ever seen?? (help with breed identification?)
Are you feeling that maternal instinct or just utterly captivated by the photogenic charm of your feathered friend? If you’re wondering about the breed of your stunning chick, you’re in the right place! Chickens can be surprisingly diverse in appearance, with some breeds flaunting looks that make them Instagram stars—seriously, why are they so unbelievably photogenic? Join the fun and let’s crack the mystery together! Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just dipping your toes into the world of poultry, we’re here to help you identify your beautiful chick. Plus, you might want to check out “I just want everyone to see Cptn. Gary Cheeseman.” for more delightful chicken content. Let’s get cluckin’!
Can anyone ID this breed?
Can anyone ID this breed? submitted by u/DayDroid32 is the perfect opportunity for chicken enthusiasts to flex their poultry recognition skills! Whether you're a seasoned farmer or a casual chicken admirer, we all know that identifying those feathered friends can be as tricky as catching a runaway hen. In this post, share your insights and help a fellow chicken lover out! Plus, if you’re curious about other quirky chicken tales, check out "Lavender Orpington Roo?" where you can join the fun guessing game about a young flock. Let’s dive into the delightful world of chickens together—after all, every breed has its own cluck-tastic charm! Your expertise could be just what someone needs to solve the mystery!
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!
Help! Underside balding
Evening everyone! I’m reaching out because one of my feathered friends is experiencing an unusual case of balding on her underside, and I’m scratching my head over it. She's about 18 months old, the largest of my three hens, and a hybrid breed. Despite my efforts, I haven’t spotted any mites or lice, and there’s no funky smell to report. She’s laying eggs regularly, though I've noticed an uptick in soft-shelled ones recently. The other hens aren’t giving her a hard time, and her appetite remains strong. However, I have seen some dirty feathers around her vent and a slight change in her droppings, possibly due to the current heatwave here in the UK. Any thoughts or insights would be greatly appreciated!
Trust, in its smallest form 🐥
Trust, in its smallest form 🐥, is beautifully embodied by this little Aseel chick. Known for their strength and spirited personalities, Aseels are a heritage breed that deserves admiration—not just for their impressive lineage but for the bond we build with them. This tiny fellow cozied up in my hand, embodying a trust in the world that warmed my heart. His father, a striking Aseel rooster with a commanding presence, adds to the family charm, but it’s this little one’s calm demeanor that steals the show. If you’re curious about the quirks of chicken behavior, check out “Why does he sit like this?” for some delightful insights. Embracing these feathered friends can lead to some cluck-tastic moments!
What breed is she? (the black one)
What breed is she? The mystery surrounding the identity of your black chicken adds an air of intrigue to your feathered friends! The previous owner’s uncertainty only fuels the curiosity. While you’ve considered breeds like the Ayam Cemani, those quirky white and brown stripes on her feathers and around her eyes suggest she might be a unique mix rather than a purebred. Chicken genetics can be a wild ride, blending colors and patterns in unexpected ways! If you’re eager to dive deeper into the fascinating world of chicken breeds, check out our article, “Easily one of the coolest barnyard mixes I’ve hatched out,” for more insights. Let’s solve this chicken conundrum together!
-Brutal Avian Pox-but happy ending.
In a heart-wrenching yet ultimately uplifting tale, my jungle fowl and standard chicken breed hybrids have been battling a brutal case of avian pox for the past few weeks. Out of the 18, four of these feathered friends had their eyes swollen shut, leading to countless hours of hand-feeding and worry. But, here’s the cluck-tastic twist: the scabs are finally falling off, and one brave soul even started clucking again! It’s a wild ride filled with graphic photos that capture the struggle, but also the resilience of our beloved chickens. For those curious about chicken health, check out our article "HELP does someone know what this is???" for more insights. Join us as we celebrate the ups and downs of chicken parenting!
Breed ID for inherited chicken
Inheriting your grandmother's bantams is a heartfelt way to honor her memory, even if the journey has been a bit rocky. It’s tough when our feathered friends age, and it sounds like your beloved hen was a true character in your life. While she may no longer be clucking around, understanding her breed can help you celebrate her legacy. If you’re looking to keep her line alive, consider exploring options for new chicks that carry on her spirit. For more insights, check out “Murder chickens,” where fellow chicken enthusiasts share their quirky experiences with these delightful creatures. Together, we can embrace the whimsy and warmth that chickens bring into our lives, even when things get a little messy!
Splash wyandotte chick
Meet your new feathered friend: the splash Wyandotte chick! At just 7.5 weeks old, you might think this lively little one is a rooster, especially with those wattles starting to strut their stuff. But don’t be too quick to crow about it! Wyandottes can surprise us with their early development, and it’s not uncommon to mistake a chick’s gender at this age. If you’re feeling a bit lost, you’re not alone—many chicken enthusiasts share the same head-scratching moments. For a deeper dive into the joys and quirks of chicken rearing, check out “First time chicken lady," where one new owner shares her own hilarious adventures. Let's embrace the delightful chaos of chicken keeping together!