chicken eggs
chicken eggs on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 720 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on chicken eggs 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 eggs, 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.

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! 😎💦."
Sick Hen?
Meet Nader, our free-range gal who’s usually the life of the coop! At just over a year old, she’s known for her adventurous spirit—so much so that she’s taken to roaming the ditches, even during pouring rain and tornado sirens! But today, something seems off. While she was strutting her stuff just yesterday, she’s now staying put in the coop, looking lethargic and allowing rare pets (a true sign something’s not right). No visible injuries are apparent, but her sudden change has us scratching our heads. Could a sickness hit her that quickly? If you’ve ever faced a similar situation with your feathered friends, or if you want to dive deeper into chicken care, check out our article on "Chicken nail loss" for more insights!

Muffin Recipe!
Alright y’all! You asked for it, and here it is—my cluck-tastic morning muffin recipe! What started as a pancake experiment turned into a bulk-baking dream, perfect for freezing and feeding my feathered friends. These muffins are not just a treat; they’re packed with health-boosting ingredients, from bright orange yolks to chili flakes that add a little kick! With just a mix of eggs, almond flour, pumpkin, and some other fowl-tastic ingredients, you’ll whip up a batch that keeps your chickens happy and healthy. Plus, you can customize them to your heart's content! If you're curious about recognizing your chicks, check out our article "Is my baby a hen or roo?" for more insights. Let’s get baking!

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! 🩷🐔

Chicken hatching
Hatching chicks can be an egg-citing journey filled with anticipation and a sprinkle of worry! If you’ve noticed a crack in your chicken egg that’s been around for over 32 hours, it’s natural to wonder whether you should take action. While it might be tempting to remove the shell piece, it’s important to tread lightly. The crack could be a pathway for bacteria, but interfering too much might harm the developing chick. Instead of jumping straight to shell removal, consider monitoring the egg’s progress and consulting with fellow chicken enthusiasts. Speaking of shared experiences, check out our article “New Pullets!” where we delve into expanding our flocks—because who doesn’t love a few extra feathered friends? Happy hatching!
When you have a broody hen, do you give her her own closed off space so the other hens can’t bother her? Or do you leave her where she chose to sit on her eggs and let her come and go as she pleases?
When you find yourself with a broody hen, the decision of whether to give her a cozy, closed-off space or let her sit where she pleases can be a real clucker! Some chicken keepers swear by creating a designated "maternity ward" to keep the other hens at bay, while others trust their broody girls to come and go as they wish. Each method has its perks, and the best choice often depends on your flock's dynamics. What essential items do you think make a broody hen’s experience more comfortable? Whether it’s a comfy nest or a little snack, share your favorite “maternity ward” must-haves! And if you’re curious about the quirks of your flock, don’t miss our article, "Is my baby a hen or roo?

Thin eggs
Oh no! Thin-shelled eggs can be quite the head-scratcher, especially when they come with extra surprises like calcifications and a goopy egg white. It sounds like your feathered friend might be facing some nutritional challenges, which can affect shell quality and egg consistency. Thin shells could be a sign of calcium deficiency or other dietary imbalances. The thick, blobby white may indicate an issue with internal egg formation as well. To get to the bottom of this, consider examining her diet and ensuring she's getting enough calcium and nutrients. For more insights into unusual egg characteristics, check out “They are so soft” submitted by /u/Ok_Onion2727 for some shared experiences. Remember, we’re all in this cluck-tastic journey together!

Mother's day hen managed to save a struggling chick -- does this happen a lot?
Mother hens are often the unsung heroes of the chicken world, and Runaround Sue’s recent story proves just that! After hatching seven adorable chicks, she turned her attention to the eighth egg, which was struggling to make its grand entrance. With patience and encouragement, Sue pecked at the egg, while her chirpy little ones rallied around, providing moral support in their own peeping way. It’s heartwarming to see a mother hen instinctively nurturing her chicks, even when the odds seem stacked against them. So, is this maternal dedication commonplace? Absolutely! For more on the enchanting behaviors of our feathered friends, check out our article, "Help: One of my chicks eyes keep becoming like this what should I do?" Happy clucking!

The literal exact moment I go out to get her previous babies for their new owner, I find mama Pauline back on the nest…
Just when I thought I was on my way to collect her previous babies for their new owner, I stumbled upon mama Pauline back on her nest—ready to claim her new brood of 18 eggs! I originally ordered 12, but the generous farmer tossed in a few extras, because who can resist a little cluck-tastic surprise? Now, I’m left pondering how many of these eggs she’ll successfully hatch. Given that her mom managed to raise 12 Brahma and Easter Egger chicks like a pro, I have high hopes for this batch. It’s a heartfelt reminder of the wild adventures in chicken parenting! For more on nurturing our feathered friends, be sure to check out "Mother's Day Hen Managed to Save a Struggling Chick."
Chicken acting weird?? Help 😅
Is your feathered friend acting a little kooky? 🤔 You’re not alone! One of our fellow chicken enthusiasts noticed her hen has been spending way too much time on her nest—so much so that it’s becoming a bit of a head-scratcher. After a day of moving her around, she still insists on returning to her favorite spot behind the pond. The mystery deepens when she skips a day of laying eggs! Is she feeling sad, unwell, or just dreaming of motherhood? 🐥 If you’re wondering about egg binding or what steps to take next, don’t fret! You might find some helpful insights in our article “Look at her crown. She is meant to be the queen of chicks.” Let’s untangle this chicken conundrum together!

Psycho Sharon finally apprehended and being held without bail.
Meet Psycho Sharon, formerly known as Olga, the green olive Egger with a wild spirit and a penchant for dramatic returns! This feathered diva has always been an egg-laying champion, but after embarking on a 13-day adventure to pursue her dreams of motherhood in the woods, she finally flew back home—arriving with all the flair of a Spartan warrior! While the goats were left baffled and the other hens rolled their eyes, I found myself tangled in thorny vines trying to track her down. Now, she’s in solitary confinement, and I’m left pondering a few things: Is three days enough? Will she forget about her secret nest? And can chickens experience "refeeding syndrome"? Any cluck-tastic advice would be appreciated!

Oh dear... there's egg all over your face
Oh dear... it seems there’s egg all over your face! But fear not, because scrambled eggs are not just a breakfast staple—they're a cluck-tastic treat for your feathered friends! Picture this: your chickens, delighted and slightly messy, feasting on this delicious dish, happily gobbling it down instead of just wearing it. This playful mishap is a reminder of the joy and chaos that comes with raising chickens. If you’re new to the world of poultry, you might want to check out "Help!" for some friendly advice on integrating your latest frizzle hens and a rooster into the flock. So, grab your spatula and let’s whip up some egg-citing moments in the coop together!

Hatching eggs with mother hen
Hatching eggs with a mother hen is an adventure filled with clucks of anticipation and a sprinkle of worry! Currently, I have three broody hens vying for the best nesting spot, often swapping places like they’re in a feathery game of musical chairs. I candled the eggs at 8 and 15 days, and while most are developing nicely, two didn’t make the cut. Now, on day 21, I’m trying to resist the urge to hover—though the suspense is palpable! Living in the New England climate adds another layer of excitement (and concern). I’d love to hear your experiences with hatching chicks alongside their feathered mamas. If you’re curious about egg hatching tales, check out “All eggs failed” for some relatable insights!
Injured Newborn Chick
Oh no! It sounds like you’ve had quite the cluck-tastic rollercoaster with your newborn chick. First of all, your attachment to that little feathered friend is completely understandable—motherly instincts are strong, especially when it comes to our adorable chicks! It’s heart-wrenching to see them in distress, and your panic is totally valid. The good news is that chicks are surprisingly resilient, but they do need some extra love and care after an incident like this. Keep an eye on that little one and ensure it’s warm and dry. If you're seeking more insights, check out our related article, "Mother's day hen managed to save a struggling chick -- does this happen a lot?" for some uplifting stories and tips. Hang in there!

All eggs failed
Oh no, it sounds like you’re in quite the cluck-tastrophe with your hen! After 24 days of devoted sitting, it’s tough to see all those eggs fail. First things first—don’t lose hope! While it’s tempting to kick her out of the nesting box, consider whether she might still be emotionally invested in the process. If you’re thinking of bringing home some chicks from the store, it can be a smooth operation to sneak them under her, especially if they’re day-old and warm. Just remember to keep an eye on her reaction! For more insights, check out our article "Update!" to see how others have navigated similar hatching hiccups. Let’s get those feathered friends clucking happily again!

Roost in Peace
Today, we gather to remember a truly cluck-tastic soul—a spirited Americana hen who left us too soon due to an impacted crop. At just over a year old, she often wore a hilariously disgruntled expression, as if she was perpetually annoyed with the world around her. Whether laying her eggs in my flower pot or strutting around the yard, she brought joy and laughter to our lives. Her feisty personality will be dearly missed, reminding us that even the most vibrant feathered friends can face challenges. For those navigating their own chicken adventures, be sure to check out our article, “Hatching eggs with mother hen,” for some egg-citing tips on nurturing your own flock. Rest in peace, dear Americana—you were truly one of a kind.

Is she crowing or is something wrong???
Is your hen channeling her inner rooster? If you've noticed your one-year-old feathered friend making some unexpected crowing sounds, you might be scratching your head in confusion. With no rooster in sight and her daily egg production still on point, it’s natural to wonder if she's just practicing her crowing skills. Hens can sometimes mimic rooster behavior, especially in a flock without a male counterpart. You might even hear the other girls chime in when she gets vocal! If you're curious about the dynamics in your flock, check out our article "Roo?" for more insights on identifying the personalities among your chickens. Remember, these quirky behaviors are just part of the delightful charm of chicken keeping!

Why does my hen look like a rooster
Ever find yourself scratching your head (or perhaps your feathers) over a hen that’s strutting around like she owns the place? You’re not alone! One curious chicken keeper, u/Savings_Bowl3117, has spotted this clucking conundrum firsthand—she’s seen her hen lay an egg, yet this feathery friend looks more like a rooster! It’s a classic case of “what’s going on here?” that many of us can relate to. Could this hen be the next feathered superstar? If you’re pondering similar poultry puzzles, you might also enjoy our article on scissor beak, which addresses the quirks of chicken care. Dive in, and let’s celebrate the delightful oddities of our feathered friends together!

First time for me and the hen hatching eggs
Welcome to the cluck-tastic adventure of hatching eggs with your feathered friend! It sounds like you’ve got quite the broody hen on your hands, choosing a cozy milk crate as her nest box. As those little chicks started hatching, it’s only natural to feel a mix of excitement and concern—especially when two of them took an unexpected tumble! It’s a heartwarming (and slightly chaotic) journey watching her care for the singleton you gifted her. Now, with a few more eggs still in the mix, you’re faced with a classic chicken conundrum: should you intervene and pop those remaining eggs into the incubator, or let nature work its magic? For more insights on quirky chicken behavior, check out “Why does my hen look like a rooster?

Hen came home almost a month later then found her stash
Oh, what a cluck-tastic twist in the tale! After 24 days of wondering where our adventurous hen had wandered off to, she returned home with five adorable chicks in tow! We suspected a raccoon encounter, given our free-ranging setup, but it turns out she was on a secret mission. Nestled under an old car hood in the woods, she had laid three eggs—two of which were underdeveloped. Just when I thought the story couldn’t get any crazier, I heard a tiny chirp! A chick, buried beneath leaves and struggling, caught my attention. After a little rescue mission, it’s now fluffed up and chirping away in the incubator. Talk about a miracle baby!

She did it! She worked so hard!
She did it! After months of relentless brooding, my sweet Buff Orpington has finally hatched a precious Turken/bantam Cochin cross chick! With its nakey neck and fabulous furry boots, I’m absolutely over the moon! Now, as a first-time hen hatching mom, I’m seeking guidance on ensuring the survival of this adorable little one. I’ve dedicated a cozy coop for them and created a ground nest in a rain barrel with straw. Should I offer medicated starter crumble to guard against coccidiosis? How long should I wait to remove any unhatched eggs? And what’s the right balance between being hands-on and hands-off? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! For more chicken adventures, check out “My harem follows me wherever I go.
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!

Strange blood marks on eggs
Have you ever cracked open an egg to find strange blood marks that resemble tiny fly droppings? If you’re collecting 3 to 5 eggs a day and notice these peculiar specks, particularly on one side of the shell, you’re not alone. These raised spots can be puzzling, leaving many chicken enthusiasts scratching their heads. While they might seem alarming, there could be a variety of reasons behind this unusual phenomenon. Some possibilities include minor issues related to your hens’ health or environmental factors, especially since you’re raising them in the unique climate of Alaska. Let’s dive into this egg-citing mystery and explore what might be causing these curious marks on your feathered friends’ daily treasures!

Hen or Roo?
Welcome to the feathered mystery of “Hen or Roo?”—a delightful enigma that’s got many of us scratching our heads! At six months old, you’ve got a bird that’s caught your attention for more than just its fluffy charm. With a feather-plucking habit that has landed this chicken in isolation, you’re now faced with the curious case of its egg-laying—or rather, the distinct lack thereof. Despite being on a protein-rich all-flock diet, this feathered friend hasn't laid an egg in five days. As a newer chicken owner, identifying Wyandottes can feel like deciphering a secret code! Could it be a late bloomer, or is isolation playing tricks on its egg-laying potential? Let’s cluck our way through this conundrum together!