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.

How do i price these eggs?
Are you ready to crack the code on pricing your freshly laid eggs? Welcome to the whimsical world of egg selling, where surplus meets chicken debt—an all-too-familiar tale for many first-time chicken owners! With your Mystic Onyx girls laying eggs in all shapes and sizes, it’s time to figure out how to price them without feeling like you’re in a fowl play situation. While you may be tempted to go cheap due to their quirky dimensions, striking a balance is key. Should you wash those eggs or keep them unwashed? Fear not! The answers are just a cluck away. For more insights, check out our article "How do you preserve the quality of your eggs?" for tips on keeping your egg game strong!
Dual purpose birds
Hey y’all! It’s been a cluck-tastic journey for my husband and me as we’ve shifted from our original plans of breeding dual purpose birds to raising and selling Cornish crosses. Our customers rave about the delicious meat, and we’re loving it too! But we can’t help but circle back to the reasons we wanted dual purpose birds in the first place. We’re considering offering both Cornish crosses and Freedom Rangers, along with our Barred Rock eggs, to give our customers more choices. The big question is: will they notice a difference in flavor or texture? I’d love to hear your thoughts, especially since you don’t get a lecture on sustainable farming when you pop into the grocery store!

Any guesses on their breed?
Have you ever found yourself scratching your head over your chickens’ true breed? That’s exactly what our friend, u/lemon_candybar, is experiencing! Initially told they were Black Sex-Links, they quickly dismissed that notion when these feathery friends didn’t match up. As time passed, they leaned towards thinking they might be Black Australorps, but now, a year in, they’re left puzzled by their unique dark brown plumage. Are they simply a mixed breed? If you’ve faced similar poultry mysteries, dive into this cluck-tastic discussion! And if you want to share in the fun, check out our article “Caught the neighborhood snack thief red-handed…” for more whimsical chicken antics! Let’s unravel this chicken conundrum together!
In your opinion, what’s the best chicken breed and WHY?
Choosing the best chicken breed can feel like a clucky conundrum, especially when your family debates the ins and outs of cold tolerance, foraging abilities, and egg production! Imagine facing future challenges like supply chain hiccups or food shortages—your feathered friends must be resilient and efficient. In a best-case scenario, the versatile and hardy Rhode Island Red often shines for its egg-laying prowess and adaptability. However, in a worst-case scenario, you might lean toward the cold-hardy Wyandotte, known for both its hardiness and robust foraging skills, which could help mitigate predator risks. Curious to learn more about the quirks of chicken breeds? Check out "Met some chickens with attitude" for a delightful dive into avian personalities!

?!!
Wondering about the breed of a chicken can feel like a game of poultry detective, and you’re not alone! If you’ve stumbled upon a feathered friend and are scratching your head, this thread is the perfect place to cluck in for some help. Chickens come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities, and identifying a breed can sometimes feel as tricky as catching a runaway hen! If you’re looking for insights, tips, or just a good laugh, check out our article, "I got called stupid for assisting stuck chicks out of their shell," where fellow chicken enthusiasts share their own amusing adventures. So, let’s unravel this chicken mystery together—who knows what cluck-tastic insights await?

Need help identifying the hen I just bought ^^
Are you scratching your head over the new hen you just brought home? Fear not, fellow chicken enthusiast! Identifying chicken breeds can feel like a clucking mystery, but it’s also egg-citing and full of potential. Whether your feathered friend is a plucky layer or a fancy showstopper, we’re here to help you uncover her breed with a little detective work. Take a peek at your hen’s size, feather patterns, and personality quirks—these clues can lead you to the right answer! If you're also curious about the differences between hens and roosters, check out our article, "Hens, roosters, or one of each?" for more insights. Let's embark on this cluck-tastic journey together and celebrate our feathered friends!

What kind of chickens are these?
Curious about your feathered friends? It sounds like you’ve got a delightful mix of black-and-white chickens and some sunny yellow ones! The black-and-white crew, with their distinct white spots, could indeed be the same breed, possibly varying in gender—those white bellies might hint at some charming personality traits. As for your yellow chicks, it’s exciting to see them develop those wing spots! Since you know they’re Easter Eggers, you’re right about the fun mix of traits they might inherit. If you're wondering about their growth stages, you might find the article "Is this molting?" helpful, especially as your chickens mature. Let’s dive into the quirks and joys of your flock together!

Anyone know what breed is my rooster?
Are you puzzled about your rooster's breed? You’re not alone! Our friend /u/Bartekmms is on a quest to uncover the mystery behind their feathered companion. Roosters come in a delightful array of colors and personalities, and identifying the exact breed can feel like playing a game of cluck and seek. If you're curious and want to join the discussion, hop on over to the comments to share your insights or ask questions. And if you’re in the mood for more chicken-related fun, check out “Help me identify my chicken,” where another user is seeking guidance on their feathery friend. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of roosters together—where every feather tells a story!

I got called stupid for assisting stuck chicks out of their shell
In the whimsical world of chick hatching, lending a helping hand to struggling chicks can ignite quite the debate! Recently, I found myself on the receiving end of some harsh words for assisting two chicks who needed a little extra love to break free from their shells. With over 100 chicks hatching each year, I’ve seen my share of feathery drama! This year alone, I welcomed 58 little ones, and when two faced challenges, I stepped in to help. Surprisingly, some folks claimed I was meddling with nature—or worse, “interfering with God’s plan.” But as someone who raises these fluffy friends, I believe we should do our best to give them a fighting chance.

Breed differences are crazy in chicks!
Welcome to Day 4 of our chick journey! 🐣 It's amazing how much personality these little fluffballs already have—each one is a unique character! For instance, our Barred Rocks seem to be on a confidence high, acting like they own the place. Are they just wild, or did we accidentally get a couple of roosters? Meanwhile, our Brahmas are the chillest of the bunch—one is especially docile. Is that typical, or should I be concerned? And let’s not forget our flighty Azures—do they really not like me, or is that just their nature? The Olive Eggers fit my expectations for chick behavior perfectly. Loving this adventure in chicken motherhood! For more insights, check out our article on letting a broody hen raise store-bought chicks.

Breed differences in chicks!
Welcome to Day 4 of our chick-raising adventure! 🐣 Already, these little feathered friends are showing off their unique personalities, and it’s a wild ride! Our Barred Rocks are strutting around like they own the place—are they always this bold, or did we accidentally score a couple of roosters? Meanwhile, the Brahmas are the chillest of the bunch, but is their docility something to worry about? And then there are the Azures, who seem to have a flair for the dramatic! Are they just naturally flighty, or do they think I’m a giant chicken? With five more chicks joining the flock soon, I’m curious about the best way to introduce them. Join the cluck-tastic discussion and share your insights!

Is my rooster ugly
Is your rooster the belle of the barnyard ball, or is he facing a clucking conundrum of perceived ugliness? Submitted by /u/Grouchy_Look_4580, this heartfelt inquiry brings us into the whimsical world of poultry pride. While you might see the beauty in your gentle giant—a Midnight Blue Marans with an impressive stature—others might not share your vision. Fear not, as love for our feathered friends often trumps the opinions of onlookers. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder! If you're curious about the joys of raising chickens, check out "I got babies!" for some egg-citing insights into nurturing those adorable little ones. Let’s dive into the quirks of rooster appreciation together!

Breed mixup?
Uh-oh! It seems like there’s been a little breed mix-up at the hatchery! You were all set to welcome a black Australorp chick, but this petite feathered friend is giving you a run for your money with her smaller size. At 7 weeks old, she might just be a bantam chick—those adorable little fluffballs have a way of surprising us! Cackle Hatchery is usually reliable, but even the best can have a fowl play moment! If you're scratching your head and need some insights, check out our article "Pullet or Cockerel?" for help identifying your little one’s gender and breed. Join the conversation and share your thoughts; the chicken community is always ready to lend a wing!

What breed of chicken is this? Thanks
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken breeds! If you're pondering, "What breed of chicken is this?" you're in the right place. Here, we’ll unravel the mystery of your feathered friend, exploring their unique traits and quirks that make them truly cluck-tastic. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the delightful chaos of poultry parenting, we’ve got you covered. And while you're here, don't miss our article on "Why is one of my baby chickens not growing?"—it’s packed with insights that might just ruffle your feathers in a good way! Let’s dive into the delightful world of chickens and uncover the secrets behind your flock!
A rant about culling
Oh, the cluck-tastrophe that is culling! I’m feeling pretty ruffled by my family's decision to tackle our rooster dilemma. With four roosters running amok, two have turned into greedy, feathered bullies — not exactly the kind of flock we want! My mom is adamant about getting rid of them, but guess who’s left holding the (chicken) bag? Yep, me! Not only am I juggling my actual job and feeling the weight of procrastination, but I’m also wrestling with the emotional side of this whole culling process. I’ve done it before, but that last one still haunts my thoughts. If you’re feeling similarly overwhelmed, you might find comfort in our article, “Breed differences in chicks!” Let’s keep this conversation going and support each other!

Advice on my round shaped runt
Meet Meatball, the round-shaped runt with a personality as plump as her adorable physique! At just under two weeks old, this little chick is a bundle of quirks, but it seems she’s not keeping pace with her feathered friends. While she’s still munching, drinking, and scratching around, Meatball has a bit of trouble on her feet and often sports some fluff-tastic poop stuck to her backside. With a possibly hunched back and a mystery breed mix, it’s hard to tell if her shape is simply a charming quirk or something more concerning. Has anyone else encountered a chick like this? Share your experiences, and let’s help Meatball strut her stuff! For more insights on chick care, check out "Mom and chicks jump start the day."

ID help :)
Looking to identify your new feathered friends? You’re in good company! Berry-bitchflakes just added a few chicks to their flock, but with a mix-up at the store, they’re not sure what breeds they brought home. While the employee mentioned a blend of breeds, Berry-bitchflakes is just thrilled to welcome these little ones into the family. If you have any breed identification tips, your expertise would be greatly appreciated! And for those curious about baby chicks, don’t miss the article "Help me identify my chicken," where others share their own chick conundrums and growth stories. Let’s celebrate this egg-citing journey together! 🐥✨

Mail Carrier with Baby Turkeys!! (almost) FINAL UPDATE!!
Hello again, feathered friends! I’m absolutely clucking thrilled by the overwhelming support and knowledge you’ve all shared regarding my baby turkey adventure! 🦃 All six little ones are thriving, and I’ve been busy connecting with resources for their future. After reaching out to the hatchery and the SPCA, I found a sanctuary that’s excited to welcome them if we choose to let them go. However, I’m weighing some serious concerns about keeping them, especially with our large breed dogs around. Plus, I'm anxious about potential salmonella issues affecting our new cookie business! Your thoughts and advice would mean the world to me. Let’s keep this chat going—check out our related article, “Free Range Tips,” for more cluck-tastic insights! Gobble, gobble!

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! 🩷🐔

Does anyone know the breed of this chicken? I am absolutely in love with her 🫶🏻
Does anyone know the breed of this chicken? I am absolutely in love with her 🫶🏻 - submitted by /u/Bubbly_Collar9178. It’s amazing how one little feathered friend can steal our hearts and bring a sprinkle of joy into our lives! Chickens come in so many delightful varieties, each with its own personality quirks. Whether you're a seasoned chicken whisperer or just beginning your journey into the clucky world of poultry, we’re all in this together. If you're feeling the urge for more chicken cuteness, check out “4 or 40?” where a new owner grapples with the temptation of expanding their flock. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this feathered beauty! 🐔✨

Just got my first chicks!
Just got my first chicks, and I’m absolutely clucking excited! While they cozy up in their tub, I’m diving into coop construction for their future home. I’m still scratching my head over their breeds, so any insights would be egg-cellent! Meet my little flock: the sunny yellow one is Louise, the deep brown beauty is Gale, the striking white and black wonder is Linda, and finally, the light brown darling is Tina. Each one is a feathered friend in the making! If you’re also navigating the ups and downs of chicken parenting, check out our article "Roosting in Nest Boxes" for tips on where to encourage your girls to settle down. Let’s embark on this cluck-tastic journey together!

Are Brahmas actually hard to sex?
Are Brahmas actually hard to sex? If you've ever found yourself scratching your head over a week-old chick with big wings and little tail feathers, you're not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts wonder why it seems to take longer to determine the gender of Brahmas compared to other breeds. In this delightful conundrum, one brave little chick stands out with stubby wings and no tail, boldly bonding with his human—could he really be a hen? It’s a common question, and you’re not the only one trying to decode these feathered mysteries. For further insights, check out our article "Rooster or Hen?" to dive deeper into the signs that could help you tell your flock apart!

TS wrongly id’ed chicken
Have you ever found yourself questioning your chicken’s identity? You're not alone! One of our community members, u/gcd120904, recently shared their puzzling experience with a “Cinnamon Queen pullet” from Tractor Supply that started crowing—definitely not the behavior you’d expect from a lady! With their initial confidence in its gender based on the sex-linked traits, they're left wondering if a mischievous Rhode Island Red cockerel slipped in by accident or if it’s a different breed altogether. It’s a classic case of chicken confusion! If you're also scratching your head over your feathered friends, check out our article "Friend or Foe?" for more insights into the quirky personalities of roosters. Let's dive into this cluck-tastic mystery together!
whats the best breed
So, you're ready to dive into the cluck-tastic world of chicken ownership! As a first-time chicken keeper, you'll want a breed that not only lays a bounty of eggs but is also friendly and easy to handle. In North America, there are several fantastic options that strike this delightful balance. Breeds like the Rhode Island Red and the Orpington are known for their egg-laying prowess while also being gentle companions. The Leghorn, with its egg-citing production rates, is another great choice—though it may be a bit more skittish. Ultimately, selecting the right breed ensures you enjoy both the joy of fresh eggs and the delightful company of your feathered friends. Let's explore these fabulous options together!