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.
Introducing new chickens
Introducing new chickens to your existing flock can feel like a clucking conundrum, especially when you're juggling 12 growouts and 11 established feathered friends! In your case, it sounds like you’re facing a bit of a space crunch. While traditionally, keeping newcomers in a cage for a few days is a great way to help them get acquainted with their new home, you’re right to consider the logistics of letting everyone roam freely. Trust your instincts—if you let your growouts into the coop and access to the run right away, monitor their interactions closely. It can be a bit of fowl play at first, but with some patience, they’ll likely find their pecking order. For more tips, check out "Roo or hen?
Overproduction!!
Overproduction can feel like a feathered frenzy, especially with a lively flock of 40+ chickens clucking away! With your husband feeding them high-protein feed, it’s no wonder they’re laying eggs like there’s no tomorrow. However, with a big buyer out on maternity leave, it’s smart to think ahead. If you’re worried about surplus eggs going bad, it might be time to consider a feed switch. While cracked corn could be a fun option, it’s essential to ensure your feathered friends still get the nutrition they need. If you're navigating the world of chickens, don't miss out on our article "Just some teenager-silkies" for more insights on flock dynamics! Let’s keep those eggs cluck-tastic and find a solution together!
Please help! Weird neuro symptom
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend Pickles is having a tough time! After making strides in her recovery from that pesky vitamin B deficiency, it’s understandably disheartening to see her regress. It’s great that you’ve been proactive with her care—scrambled eggs and vitamin water can be a cluck-tastic boost! The pecking at the air and curled toes are concerning, but you’re not alone in this. Fellow chicken enthusiasts can often provide valuable insights, so don’t hesitate to reach out for advice. If you’re curious about other chicken-related health quirks, check out our article “Conjoined/webbed toes?” for more on unusual toe issues. Together, we can help Pickles get back to her happy, healthy self!
Vent Gleet or Water Belly?
Hello, fellow chicken lovers! Today I found myself in a bit of a cluck-tastrophe with one of my 11-month-old hens. While cleaning the run, I noticed her vent area looking inflamed and a tad squishy, which initially made me think the other hens were up to some fowl play. She's been acting totally normal—eating, drinking, and even laying eggs—so I’m scratching my head about the reddish bum and the mysterious yolk on the eggs in the nesting box. Is this a case of Vent Gleet or something else entirely? I’ve already given her a warm Epsom salt bath and separated her for now. What’s the best course of action moving forward?
Wanting to know if y'all think our Easter egger Hen or Roo
Hey, chicken enthusiasts! We need your cluck-tastic insight on a little feathered friend of ours. Meet Pidge, our Easter Egger who’s been through quite the journey—after some early leg issues that required a month of vitamins and care, this big guy is now strutting around like a champ! However, my wife is worried that Pidge might actually be a Roo, and living in our neighborhood, we can’t have any crowing companions. Our other ladies are already making enough morning music with their egg songs! We’ve sent off DNA for confirmation, but in the meantime, we’d love your thoughts. And if you enjoy quirky chicken tales, check out “Oh, to be a hen among the mint and lemons” for more feathery fun!
Midnight Majesty Maran - roo?
Hey, chicken keeper friends! I need your cluck-tastic expertise on a pressing matter. Meet "Maureen," my Midnight Majesty Maran, who’s about 8 weeks old and has those adorable feathered feet and striking gold eyes. But here’s the catch — I’m starting to wonder if Maureen might actually be a rooster! After recently rehoming another rooster, I’m not exactly looking to add another crower to my flock. I was so excited about those copper eggs, and the thought of losing that dream is making me a bit feathery with concern. If you’ve got any insights or advice, I’m all ears! And if you’re also navigating the world of potential roosters, check out our article "How many Roos do you spy" for more insights!
Hello from Estill County, Kentucky
Hello from Estill County, Kentucky! I have a stunning light Brahma hen whose beauty is only matched by her quirky personality. However, I must admit, her eggs seem a tad small for such a grand bird. On the other hand, my Isa Brown lays eggs so enormous that closing the carton lid is a challenge! It’s a delightful mystery, especially since I suspect my rooster might have a few surprises in his ancestry. If you’re curious about the charm of our feathered friends, you might enjoy our article, "Robert is already settled inside the house ❤️ 🫶," which captures the heartwarming essence of chicken life. Join me in celebrating the wonderful and sometimes perplexing world of chickens!
What's this thing in my shamo's cheek?
Is your shamo mix giving you the ol’ chicken side-eye due to a mysterious lump in his cheek? After a tussle with another male, it sounds like he’s sporting a dark scab that’s causing quite the ruckus. While he seems to be getting around fine and is still begging for food, his eating habits have become a bit peculiar—favoring feed bags over foraging on his own. Plus, the fact that he’s stopped crowing is definitely a red flag. Don’t fret just yet! This could be a sign of stress or discomfort rather than something dire. If you're looking for more insight into chicken behavior, check out our article "How many Roos do you spy?" for some cluck-tastic tips!
HELP LIMPING HEN
Oh no! A limping hen can certainly send any chicken keeper into a mini panic. But fear not! Since she's just pooped, we can rule out being egg-bound, and if there are no visible cuts or signs of bumblefoot, we might just be dealing with a little chicken drama. Limping can stem from various causes, such as a sprained leg or even a minor issue that will resolve itself. Keep an eye on her behavior, ensure she’s comfortable, and consider restricting her movement to avoid further injury. For those curious about other chicken health concerns, check out our article, "Vent Gleet or Water Belly?" for some insights.
Do you ever look at an egg and just think “ouch” 😬
Do you ever look at an egg and just think “ouch”? 😬 We’ve all been there, right? Eggs might be a staple in our kitchens, but they can also spark some curious thoughts and unexpected feelings. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who’s still chickening out at the thought of these feathered friends, there’s humor to be found in the little quirks of chicken life. For more cluck-tastic adventures, don’t miss our article "I love chickens, so I made a game about flying one," submitted by the creative mind behind /u/GreenLemonMusic. Join the conversation and share your own egg-speriences in the comments!
Scissor Beak Tips
Hey there, chicken lovers! Meet Percy, our little feathered friend who’s recently developed scissor beak at just three weeks old. We spotted this challenge on Saturday, and it’s got us all clucking with concern. Percy’s a bit underweight at around 100 grams, which is similar to our two-week-old chicks. While she eats from a full feeder, her quirky beak makes it tricky for her to get enough grub. We tried whipping up a mash of water, egg yolk, and chick feed, but she’s not biting! She’s also hesitant at the waterer—only dipping her beak without that classic head-tilt swallow. We’re keeping a close eye on her and exploring options, including insights from our article "Little bantam chick is growing up.
3 hens, one nest
In the delightful chaos of chicken life, three hens have declared their love for one particular nesting corner—much to the chagrin of their devoted caretaker! Despite the cozy, covered spaces I’ve crafted for them, my stubborn girls have decided that this one spot is simply the Good Corner, and they’re not budging. My heart swells for these feathery friends, especially with one hen going broody since January, creating a delightful egg-sharing situation that’s both amusing and endearing. Sometimes, you just need to share a little chicken drama with fellow enthusiasts, right? If you’re in the mood for more adorable adventures, check out “His little chirps are soothing to the soul” for a heartwarming read.
I lost one of my girls yesterday to heat stroke and I’m all torn about it. Should I keep other 3 out of coop?
Losing a feathered friend is never easy, and it sounds like you’re carrying a heavy heart right now. Your experience with heat stroke highlights the challenges of chicken ownership, especially for those still learning the ropes. It’s perfectly natural to worry about the well-being of your remaining girls, particularly after such a loss. Keeping them in the run until you can add some cooling measures like fans and a kiddy pool seems like a wise move—better safe than sorry! Just remember, you’re not alone in this journey; many of us have felt the sharp pang of regret and uncertainty. If you want to dive deeper into chicken care, check out our article on "Scissor Beak Tips" for more insights.
First of the second wave of hatches!
Cluck-tastic news from the coop! Our beloved blue cochin, Penelope, has welcomed her latest bundle of joy, marking the first of the second wave of hatches! This is her third clutch in just two years—what a devoted mama! With three more eggs nestled under her feathery warmth, we can expect more excitement soon. Plus, her daughter Boots, a charming cochin-Ameraucana cross, is gearing up for her very first clutch alongside flockmate Junebug, a striking black Jersey Giant. Just today, I was musing about naming one of the chicks Nettle, inspired by a delightful video from u/Apocalyptic_Bird_Man. Curious about what’s happening in the world of chickens? Don’t miss our article on “5 eggs in 2 days from the same hen!!” for some egg-citing insights!
How long do you let a broody bird go?
When it comes to dealing with a broody bird like Bean, a stunning year-old backyard blend, the struggle is real—especially when she’s been committed to her nest for nearly a month! As she clucks away, refusing to budge, you may find yourself in a bit of a pickle, particularly with the summer heat soaring over 100 degrees in the coop. Kicking her out for a daily hour of chicken business is a great start, but you’re right to be concerned about her well-being. So, how long should you let her stay broody? It’s a balance of compassion and practicality. If you’re looking for more insights, check out our article on "Broody mom rejecting chicks?" for valuable tips on navigating these feathered dilemmas.
5 eggs in 2 days from the same hen!!
Wowza! Five eggs in just two days from your 23-week-old hen? That's quite the egg-stravaganza! While it’s not the usual egg-laying marathon, it can happen—especially when hens are excited or in peak laying condition. It sounds like your feathered friend is thriving, with no changes in behavior or appetite. Just keep an eye on her, ensuring she has access to plenty of fresh water, nutritious feed, and a comfy nesting spot. If you’re curious about other chicken care topics, check out "Do you count your chickens every night?" for some fun insights. Remember, every chicken has its quirks, so embrace the egg-citement and enjoy the show! Keep those cluck-tastic vibes going!
first egg!
Oh, the joy of your first egg! Congratulations on this cluck-tastic milestone in your chicken-keeping adventure! There's nothing quite like the thrill of discovering that your feathered friends have rewarded your care with their very first egg. It’s a moment that will surely leave you over the moon and filled with pride. If you’re curious about maximizing the egg-citing potential of your hens, you might want to check out our article “3 hens, one nest,” which explores cozy nesting options to keep your girls happy and productive. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting out, the journey with your chickens is bound to be filled with laughter, surprises, and maybe a little fowl play along the way! Enjoy every moment of this egg-straordinary experience!
Broody mom rejecting chicks?
Is your broody mom playing hard to get with her chicks? Our white Cochin has been sitting on her eggs for two weeks and was moved to a quiet brooder area for three days. After introducing her to the chicks, we found her coldly pecking them away—definitely not the nurturing behavior we hoped for! With her back in the coop on an empty nest, it seems she’s more interested in her old routine than bonding with her new feathered friends. It’s a tough situation, but we’ve decided to raise the chicks ourselves. If you’re navigating the ups and downs of hen and chick relationships, check out “First of the second wave of hatches!” for some heartwarming inspiration! What are your thoughts on this broody dilemma?
Her name was Penny. I just wanted people to know what a beautiful soul she was
Her name was Penny, a beautiful soul whose bright spirit touched our lives in the brief time she was with us. Just shy of a year old, she laid an egg this morning and bounded around with pure joy, leaving us in shock at her sudden passing. Penny was more than just a chicken; she was a cuddly bundle of love who would jump on you unexpectedly or nuzzle at your feet, sharing her fluffy head for a gentle rub. The only one in our flock who truly adored being petted, she brought warmth and laughter to our days. Thank you, Penny, for the joy you shared. You are deeply missed. For more heartwarming chicken moments, check out "Speedy," featuring another beloved feathered friend.
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!
egg yolk peritonitis. please help!!!
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is in a bit of a pickle! Egg yolk peritonitis can be a serious condition in hens, often stemming from an egg that has broken inside the body, leading to inflammation and infection. Given that she's having a tough time walking and is seeking solitude under the trampoline, it's important to act quickly. While it’s great news that she laid two eggs, her symptoms suggest she might need some extra TLC. It’s always wise to consult a vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, you might find our article, "Poppy butt not eating," helpful, as it discusses other common chicken ailments that can be concerning. Wishing you and your hen a speedy recovery!
Yolko - Nest in Peace
Meet Yolko, the once-bullied hen who transformed into a nurturing leader of the flock. Six years ago, she came into our lives alongside her partner, Clementine, and I must admit, she didn’t start off as my favorite. However, as Clem's health declined, Yolko revealed a sweet and protective side that melted my heart. After Clementine's passing, Yolko matured into a confident head hen, guiding her flock—especially Drizzle—with kindness, save for the occasional playful peck. Her “Yolko yolks” were always a delight, producing large, tasty eggs that became a favorite in our kitchen. It’s hard to believe that this spirited, friendly chicken is now gone. As we say goodbye, we remember her legacy: a true feathered friend. Nest in peace, Yolko.
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!
Chicken Leg Tags
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! Welcome to the delightful world of naming your feathered friends—what a cluck-tastic adventure you’re embarking on! With your 11 Rock Island hens, you’re bound to discover their unique personalities, especially since a few have distinct markings. Using leg tags is a brilliant idea for tracking their health and wellness, and yes, they’re often called leg bands. You can find them in a rainbow of colors to match each bird’s fabulous personality! Speaking of quirky chicken antics, you might enjoy our article, "Caught the neighborhood snack thief red-handed..." for a hearty laugh. Best of luck with your girls, and don’t hesitate to share your naming ideas—we’d love to hear them!