Alektorophobia/chicken eggs

chicken eggs

chicken eggs on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 686 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.

Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Perfect boiled eggs:

Have you ever found yourself struggling to peel a boiled egg, only to be left with a mess of shell fragments? Fear not, because I’ve perfected the art of boiling eggs! Start by soaking your eggs in filtered water with a sprinkle of baking soda for about ten minutes to give them a gentle cleanse. Next, give the larger end a little tap with a spoon until you hear that satisfying crack. In a pot, combine filtered water and two tablespoons of vinegar, then bring it to a boil. Once boiling, remove it from heat, cover, and let it sit for 13 minutes. Finally, plunge those beauties into an ice water bath made with filtered water and ice cubes. Voila!

First time grandmother here, I have some questions!
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

First time grandmother here, I have some questions!

Congratulations, first-time grandmother! Your bantam is about to be a proud momma, and it sounds like you’re in for an egg-citing adventure! Moving momma and her fluffy bundles of joy into a maternity pen is a cluck-tastic idea, but timing is key. It’s best to wait until all the eggs have hatched to avoid any stress for the little ones. As for inspecting the chicks for pasty butt, it’s always wise to keep an eye out, especially in those early days. While momma hen will help with some care, you might still need to step in and give those chicks a little TLC. Get ready for some serious cuteness overload, and enjoy every moment of this delightful journey!

Pippin laid her first eggs! 🌸
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Pippin laid her first eggs! 🌸

Exciting news from the coop! 🎉 Pippin, one of my adorable barred silkies, has laid her very first eggs! It’s a cluck-tastic moment that I just had to share with you all. Pippin and her partner in crime, Merry, are inseparable, and their names couldn't be more fitting. I originally thought Merry was a girl and Pippin a boy due to their barring genes, but it turns out I had it all wrong! Nevertheless, their names stuck, and I can’t help but chuckle at the mix-up. Watching these feathered friends grow and thrive brings me so much joy. Here’s to more egg-citing adventures in the coop! 🥚✨ What a journey it’s been so far!

Boiled chicken eggs for happy hour today..
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Boiled chicken eggs for happy hour today..

Get ready for a cluck-tastic happy hour! Today, we’re diving into the world of boiled chicken eggs—those delightful little bundles of protein that are perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who’s chickening out at the thought of handling eggs, there’s something egg-citing about this simple yet versatile treat. Boiled eggs can be dressed up or down, making them a charming addition to your happy hour spread. Picture this: a platter of beautifully boiled eggs, maybe with a sprinkle of seasoning or a side of zesty dip, inviting laughter and conversation among friends. So, grab your feathered friends and let’s crack open the fun—happy hour just got a whole lot tastier!

Woke up to one of my girls dead
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Woke up to one of my girls dead

Waking up to the unexpected loss of a feathered friend can be heart-wrenching, and today was no exception for me. I found Melly, named for her hawk-like appearance, lifeless in the coop. Just two days ago, she laid a beautiful blue egg, and now she’s gone, leaving me and the rest of the flock in shock. At only 11 months old, she seemed happy and healthy, just like her seven companions. While we’re grieving her loss, I can’t help but wonder what could have caused this sudden tragedy. If you’ve experienced something similar or have any insights into potential reasons for such a heartbreaking occurrence, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s help each other navigate this cluck-tastic yet sometimes unpredictable journey of chicken-keeping.

Need more calcium?
chickens

Need more calcium?

Have you ever cracked open an egg only to find a surprise? If you’ve noticed some unusual shells—like the ones that might be thinner or oddly shaped—you may be dealing with a calcium deficiency in your hens. This phenomenon isn’t just a quirky occurrence; it’s a sign that one (or more) of your feathered friends might need a little extra love in the calcium department. Calcium is crucial for producing strong, healthy eggs, and it’s essential for your hens’ overall well-being. In this discussion, we’ll explore the signs of calcium deficiency, how to boost your hens’ intake, and share some cluck-tastic tips to ensure your egg-laying ladies are healthy and happy. Let’s crack this mystery together!

Is this dangerous for the hen? She's now laid multiple like this
chickens

Is this dangerous for the hen? She's now laid multiple like this

Is your hen laying eggs that raise a few eyebrows? You’re not alone! Many chicken keepers have encountered quirky egg-laying habits, and it can stir up a bit of concern. If your feathered friend seems to be laying unusual eggs—while her companions produce thick, healthy shells—it's natural to wonder if intervention is necessary. Thankfully, calcium levels are not an issue, but one hen’s peculiar egg production might warrant a closer look. Understanding what’s happening can help you ensure your flock remains happy and healthy. Let’s dive into this egg-citing mystery and explore whether your hen needs a little extra TLC or if she's just expressing her unique personality through her egg-laying style!

Incubator mystery
chickens

Incubator mystery

Welcome to the egg-citing world of incubating chicken eggs! My sister has brought home a clutch of mystery eggs from her school, which are supposed to hatch today. While we're on day 20 of incubation, there’s a bit of a hiccup— the egg turner is still in place, and we’re worried about how that might affect the humidity. With no clear instructions on how to operate this unbranded incubator, we’re feeling a tad clucky. We’ve learned we need to turn off the motor before removing the turner, but does that mean unplugging the whole unit? The red dial looks suspicious, but we’re hesitant to fiddle with settings we don’t understand. Any advice from fellow chicken enthusiasts would be cluck-tastically appreciated!

Green eggs?
chickens

Green eggs?

Green eggs? Oh, you’ve stumbled into a cluck-tastic mystery! As a newish chicken keeper with two years under your belt, it sounds like you’ve already embarked on a feathered adventure. Congratulations on your broody hen hatching those adorable chicks last fall! Now, the plot thickens with your little green egg-layer—what a peculiar surprise! Typically, when it comes to egg color, a mix of a blue layer and a brown layer is expected for those vibrant green beauties. But here you are with a Jersey Giant mama and a Silkie Orpington papa, and voilà—a small green egg from a pint-sized chicken! Has anyone else had this quirky experience? Let’s unravel this egg-citing enigma together!

What is this egg?
chickens

What is this egg?

Have you ever stumbled upon an egg in the laying box and thought, “What in the cluck is this?” Well, you're not alone! A curious Redditor, u/Professor-Gator, recently found an intriguing egg alongside a normal-sized one and is wondering what it could be. With all chickens grown, plus one adventurous turkey in the mix, the mystery deepens. Is it an egg from a feathered friend or something more exotic? Join the conversation as we explore the possibilities of this peculiar find. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry keeper or just a curious onlooker, let’s crack this case wide open and see what we can discover about this egg-citing mystery! Check out the link for more cluck-tastic insights and community thoughts!

Bloody egg from one of my Bantams – any insights?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Bloody egg from one of my Bantams – any insights?

Oh no, a bloody egg from your Bantam! It’s definitely a head-scratcher, but you’re not alone in this quirky chicken adventure. With your flock of four Bantams turning one this spring and two of them laying regularly, it’s great to hear that the rest are doing well. The fact that your hen seems perfectly fine—eating well and displaying normal energy—is a good sign. Bloody eggs can sometimes indicate stress or minor injuries, possibly linked to the roosters' rowdy behavior. Since they seem to favor one of your Bantams, it might be worth observing their interactions more closely. Have any of your fellow chicken enthusiasts experienced something similar? Let’s cluck about it and find some egg-citing solutions together!

Help with feather loss
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Help with feather loss

Feather loss in chickens can be a perplexing puzzle, especially when it seems like your feathered friends are sporting more bare patches than plumes! With 20 chickens in your flock, including a rambunctious rooster who's been displaying some rather questionable behavior, you're right to seek advice. While you've taken commendable steps—treating for mites, cleaning the coop, and even introducing diatomaceous earth—there could be a few reasons behind this feather fiasco. Feather pecking among hens, stress from the rooster's antics, or a delayed molt might all play a part. Let's dive into the possible causes and solutions to help your flock get back to their cluck-tastic selves! Your journey to fluffy glory starts here!

I pulled my chicken out of the nest box…
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

I pulled my chicken out of the nest box…

In a comical twist of fate, I pulled my chicken out of her cozy nest box, only for her to promptly lay an egg on the ground. Talk about bad timing! I thought she was going broody after sitting there for hours, and with the sun heating up, I worried she’d overheat. My intention was to save her from becoming a broody hen, but as luck would have it, I might have interrupted her egg-laying moment. I felt a wave of guilt wash over me—I mean, who knew chickens could be so dramatic? I apologized profusely, hoping she would forgive me for my well-meaning but misguided intervention. Ah, the joys and surprises of chicken keeping! 🤦🏻‍♂️

My 6 YO hen, Dorothy, with insane spurs 🐓
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

My 6 YO hen, Dorothy, with insane spurs 🐓

Meet Dorothy, my quirky 6-year-old hen with spurs that could rival a cowboy's boots! 🐓 She’s a one-of-a-kind lady in our flock, laying a rare egg only about twice a month—definitely not your average egg production! With no roosters around, Dorothy struts her stuff with a unique flair, embodying the whimsical charm of our feathered friends. Her spurs might look a bit intimidating, but trust me, they only add to her delightful personality. I’m curious—are there any other chicken enthusiasts out there with a hen like Dorothy? Let’s cluck about our extraordinary hens and share those quirky stories that make chicken-keeping so egg-citing! Join the conversation and let’s celebrate our fabulous feathered companions!

chickens

Good dual breeds?

Are you on the hunt for the perfect dual-purpose chicken breeds that balance meat production and egg-laying? You’re not alone! A fellow chicken enthusiast is exploring the delightful world of Brahma and Freedom Rangers for their meat birds, but they’re also considering adding some friendly egg layers to the mix. With a limit of just six feathered friends on their property, they’re seeking breeds that grow quickly and don’t require a ton of feed. If you find yourself in a similar cluck-tastrophe or are just curious about the best dual-purpose options, this discussion is a fabulous opportunity to share insights, tips, and perhaps even some egg-citing breed recommendations! Join in and let’s hatch some great ideas together!

Chicken identification please?
chickens

Chicken identification please?

Hey there, feathered friend! It sounds like your cousin's chick crew is quite the eclectic bunch. Identifying chickens can be a delightful puzzle, especially when you’re knee-deep in fluff and cuteness. From your description, those grey darlings might just be Lavender Orpingtons, known for their stunning plumage and sweet demeanor. As for the black beauties, Black Laced Wyandottes are a likely contender, sporting that fabulous lace pattern that makes them truly eye-catching. With seven hens and one rooster laying about 30 eggs a week, you’re certainly in for an egg-citing time! Let’s get to the bottom of this feathered mystery together. Any photos would help, too—because who can resist a good chick pic? 🐔✨

chickens

Small eggs

Having a flock of Rhode Island Red hens is egg-citing, especially when they start laying their first eggs! However, it's not uncommon for newbie layers to produce smaller eggs initially. Your girls are just getting the hang of it, and those petite offerings are a typical part of their learning curve. As they gain confidence and experience, you can expect their egg size to gradually increase. It sounds like your older cinnamon queens are setting the bar high, but rest assured, your Rhode Island Reds will catch up in no time! Since your environment and nutrition seem on point, let those little eggs be a reminder of your hens' journey as they evolve into confident cluckers.

My girls laid some pretty eggs!!
chickens

My girls laid some pretty eggs!!

Get ready for a cluck-tastic surprise! Our feathered friends are at it again, and this time they’ve outdone themselves with a colorful array of eggs that are simply egg-citing. Submitted by the fabulous u/Buckinuoff, this delightful post showcases the beauty and uniqueness of chicken eggs, celebrating the quirky charm that comes with raising chickens. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just a casual observer, there’s something magical about discovering an unexpected treasure in the coop. Join the fun, share your thoughts, and let’s dive into a world where every egg tells a story. Trust us, you won’t want to chickening out of this one! Check out the post and the comments to see the colorful egg-citement unfold!

The many colors of chicken eggs! My basket looks like spring again.
chickens

The many colors of chicken eggs! My basket looks like spring again.

Spring has sprung in the most delightful way—through a vibrant basket of chicken eggs! Submitted by the fabulous /u/pelidesse, this colorful collection is a true celebration of the many hues that our feathered friends can lay. From soft pastels to deep earth tones, the variety of egg colors is not just visually stunning but also a reflection of the diverse breeds that grace our backyards. Each egg tells a story, adding a little whimsy to our kitchens and reminding us of the joy that comes from raising chickens. So, let’s crack open the mystery behind these egg-citing colors and discover what makes each one unique. Get ready for a cluck-tastic journey into the world of chicken eggs!

New shade from my Mystic Marans!
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

New shade from my Mystic Marans!

Introducing the latest cluck-tastic addition from my Mystic Marans! This little egg-venture began with a medium-sized, light brown egg, but wait—her second egg is a delightful surprise, tiny and dark as midnight! I’m thrilled to showcase the enchanting Midnight Majesty Marans, a charming twist in my chicken journey. It’s fascinating how these feathered friends can produce such a variety of eggs, each one a unique treasure waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of poultry, the Mystic Marans are sure to captivate with their whimsical charm and unexpected surprises. Join me in celebrating this egg-citing moment and let’s cluck about our feathered friends together! [Link] [Comments].

Hen acting weird since Friday.
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Hen acting weird since Friday.

Oh dear, it sounds like Misty is in a bit of a pickle! Since Friday, she’s been acting like a lone wolf—er, chicken—hanging out by herself and laying around while her feathered friends are off gallivanting. The poopy situation on her fluffy butt feathers isn’t doing her any favors either! You’ve already taken the initiative with a soothing Epsom salt bath and provided her with fresh water and food, which is egg-cellent. The mix of runny and solid poop could be a sign of something brewing, and given that she hasn’t laid her usual big eggs, egg binding might be a possibility. It’s always good to be cautious, so keep a close eye on her—our feathered friends can be quite the drama queens!

Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Helping people to take better care of their chickens.

Caring for chickens is a rewarding yet challenging journey, especially when witnessing fellow enthusiasts neglect their feathered friends. Recently, I found myself in a tough spot while visiting a friend’s home in Greece, where their chickens live in less-than-ideal conditions. With muddy coops, overcrowded roosts, and signs of distress among the hens, it was hard to stand by. I’ve taken it upon myself to help improve their situation, from creating cozy nesting boxes to advocating for better living conditions. While I’m not sure how my suggestions will be received by the family, I remain hopeful. Let’s rally together to share encouragement and ideas for helping chickens thrive, because every cluck-tastic life deserves a little extra care!

Absolute unit of an egg my girl laid
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Absolute unit of an egg my girl laid

Prepare to be egg-statically amazed, folks! Our feathered friend, submitted by the delightful /u/pinksunflower99, has laid an absolute unit of an egg! This isn’t just any ordinary egg; it’s a cluck-tastic testament to the wonders of poultry prowess. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or a casual observer of the fowl world, this giant egg is sure to spark curiosity and conversation. Imagine the breakfast possibilities! Join in the fun as we celebrate this egg-citing moment in chicken history. Let’s crack open the comments and share your thoughts—what do you think about this egg-squisite creation? Don’t be shy; let’s cluck about it!

chickens

Favorite US Breeds

Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you're on an egg-citing journey to find the perfect feathered friends for your home in NW Georgia. Many folks share your dream of welcoming friendly, quirky chickens that not only lay plenty of eggs but also get along with other breeds. While breeds like Orpingtons, Wyandottes, and Barred Rocks are excellent choices, each has its own personality and quirks. It’s great that you’re considering free-ranging your chickens, but without a fenced yard, it can be a bit of a cluck-tastrophe waiting to happen! Let’s dive into your questions, share experiences, and figure out how to make your chicken dreams come true—feathers and all!