chickens

chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 2941 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on chickens 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 chickens, 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

My chicken friends had a funeral for one of the hens.

Today, I found myself saying goodbye to one of my beloved hens, Monica. Living among a flock of feral chickens, I've developed a special bond with each feathered friend, knowing them all by name. This morning, I noticed Monica waddling up to me, clearly in distress. I snuggled her close, whispering how much she meant to me. As rain began to fall, I tucked her beside my door for shelter and dashed inside for a shower. When I returned, she had passed, and her flock gathered around her. I moved her to the grass, where they all clucked softly, mourning their friend. Even Monica's daughter, Solo, sat by her side, and my heart shattered a little more.

First pasty butt victim
chickens

First pasty butt victim

Welcome to the cluck-tastic tale of our first pasty butt victim, Onyx! This feathered friend is in for a spa day that promises to be both hilarious and heartwarming. Pasty butt can strike fear into the hearts of chicken keepers, but fear not! We're here to navigate this messy moment with humor and care. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just here for the laughs, you'll find something to relate to in this quirky adventure. And if you’re curious about more chicken antics, don’t miss our article, "Rooster has bars": Henry the singing roosty, where you can enjoy the musical talents of another charming feathered friend. Join us as we dive into Onyx's spa day escapades!

Strange Looking Chicken
chickens

Strange Looking Chicken

Prepare to meet one of the quirkiest members of the poultry family! Submitted by u/mac28091, this strange-looking chicken is sure to tickle your fancy and maybe even ruffle a few feathers. Chickens come in all shapes and sizes, and this one is no exception. With its unique appearance, it’s a testament to the wonderfully weird world of our feathered friends. If you’re curious about the amusing antics of chickens, don’t forget to check out “Anyone buy this for their chickens? (Funny story in description)” for a laugh and a peek into the delightful unpredictability of chicken ownership. Dive into the cluck-tastic world of chickens and join the fun—who knows what silly surprises await you!

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

Looking for Creative Ways to Keep Chickens Cool

With the sweltering heat and humidity settling in, keeping our feathered friends cool becomes a top priority! After relocating from a cooler climate, I’ve been experimenting with some cluck-tastic methods to beat the heat. Ice water, frozen fruit blocks, and juicy watermelon have become fan favorites for my chickens. Plus, I’ve set up a big fan outside to create a refreshing breeze during mealtime. But I’m on the hunt for even more creative ideas! If you're in the same boat, let's brainstorm together! And while you're at it, check out our article "Hen or roo: silkie edition" for insights on identifying your birds—because nothing says summer like knowing exactly who’s who in the coop!

Rooster has bars
chickens

Rooster has bars

Get ready to tap your toes and cluck along because Henry the singing rooster is stealing the spotlight! With his feathered flair and a voice that could charm the socks off any chicken lover, Henry proves that roosters can do more than just crow at dawn—they can drop some serious bars, too! This delightful article, submitted by /u/alphaky1e, takes us on a melodious journey through Henry’s impressive vocal talents and his cheeky antics that leave us all in stitches. If you’re curious about the shenanigans of our feathered friends, check out "🚨 GARBAGE DISPOSAL TEST! Will My Chickens Devour These Leftovers? 🐔🥗" for more egg-citing chicken adventures. Dive in and join the fun!

Ginger on my head
chickens

Ginger on my head

Oh, the bittersweet joy of watching our feathered friends grow up! It feels like just yesterday that Ginger was a tiny fluffball, and now she’s strutting her stuff like a true diva—complete with her own crown of feathers! 😭 As we celebrate this milestone, we're reminded of the ups and downs of chicken parenting, from adorable antics to the occasional head-scratching behavior. If you've ever wondered about the dynamics of flock life, check out our article, "This one has been bullying another girl and plucking and eating her feathers. Roo or mean girl?" to dive deeper into the quirks of chicken hierarchy. Join us in sharing the love, laughter, and the occasional ruffled feather as we cherish every moment with our beloved girls!

Show me your Angry Birds.
chickens

Show me your Angry Birds.

Get ready to meet Agnes, the feathered sweetheart who’s not as fierce as her name suggests! While she might have a reputation for striking out like an Angry Bird, this timid gal is all about charm and cuddles. Join us as we dive into the delightful world of Agnes and her not-so-scary antics that will make you chuckle and maybe even swoon. And if you’re curious about the feathered family dynamics, don’t miss our article “Maybe roo?”—it’s a cluck-tastic exploration of gender surprises in the coop! Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just a casual observer, Agnes’s story is bound to resonate and bring a smile to your face. Let’s cluck it up!

I love Esmé’s hops
chickens

I love Esmé’s hops

Get ready to cluck with excitement because “I love Esmé’s hops” is here to bring a smile to your face! Submitted by the fabulous /u/HTD_Bros, this delightful piece showcases the whimsical charm of Esmé and her playful antics. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just dipping your toes into the world of feathered friends, this post is sure to resonate with your love for the quirky side of chicken life. Plus, if you’re curious about the flock dynamics, don’t miss the related article “This one has been bullying another girl and plucking and eating her feathers. Roo or mean girl?” for some feathered drama that will keep you entertained. Dive in and enjoy the fun!

Cockerel or Pullet? Thoughts?
chickens

Cockerel or Pullet? Thoughts?

Are you scratching your head over whether your chick is a cockerel or a pullet? Join the club! At around 9 weeks old, deciphering the gender of your feathered friend can feel like a high-stakes game of chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a newbie just starting this egg-citing journey, the clues can be as perplexing as a chicken in a corn maze. In this thread, submitted by u/JamesAustin23, fellow chicken enthusiasts are diving into the telltale signs that differentiate roosters from hens. And if you're curious about the signs of a healthy chick, check out "Just sleepy or something wrong?" for a deeper exploration of early chick care. Let’s cluck our way through this together!

My Robert sleeps with the dogs 🐕
chickens

My Robert sleeps with the dogs 🐕

In a heartwarming twist of farm life, our friend u/negrilatina shares the delightful story of Robert, who has chosen to snuggle up with the dogs instead of joining the flock. This charming tale captures the quirks of life with our feathered friends and reminds us that sometimes, love knows no bounds—even if it means cozying up with canines instead of clucking companions. If you’re intrigued by the antics of farm life, check out our article, "🚨 GARBAGE DISPOSAL TEST! Will My Chickens Devour These Leftovers? 🐔🥗" for more cluck-tastic insights. Join the conversation, and let’s celebrate the whimsical moments that make our pets so special! 🐾🐔

Anyone buy this for their chickens? (Funny story in description)
chickens

Anyone buy this for their chickens? (Funny story in description)

Ever had a cluck-tastic moment at the store that left you chuckling? Picture this: I was at Tractor Supply, eyeing the adorable chickens and ducks, when I spotted two teens and a lady who could've easily been their mom. They adored those feathered friends but quickly diverted their attention to a food display nearby. As they inspected a package, the girl gasped, “Eww, it has wormies in it!” It was a hilarious reminder of a classic Golden Girls scene where Dorothy unwittingly tries chicken chow, only to spit it out in disgust. I couldn't help but imagine if that boy had tricked the girl into trying the chicken food—her expression would’ve mirrored Dorothy’s priceless face! Want more chicken fun?

chickens

Little chick walking weird

Oh no, a little chick with a wonky walk! It sounds like you’ve got a feathered friend who’s strutting her stuff on her hock, with those toes curled back like they’re auditioning for a chicken ballet. This could potentially point to a vitamin B2 deficiency, but let’s not put all our eggs in one basket just yet! If you’re looking for advice on how to help her get back on her little feet, you’re in the right spot. Many fellow chicken enthusiasts have navigated similar challenges and are eager to share their insights. While you’re here, you might also want to check out “Just sleepy or something wrong?” for some additional tips on chick care. Let’s get this little lady clucking again!

Would anyone with hen(s) be willing to have a live-cam play date with my house rooster?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Would anyone with hen(s) be willing to have a live-cam play date with my house rooster?

Attention, fellow chicken aficionados! I’m on a quest to find some feathered friends for my shy little house rooster, Stuart. Rescued from a small wire cage just last month, he’s still settling into his new digs and getting used to the great outdoors. Watching chicken videos seems to bring him joy, especially when he hears other roosters crowing. I’d love to set up a live-cam playdate where Stuart can interact with other hens—imagine the cluck-tastic fun! If anyone has experience with live interactive feeds or is willing to let their chickens join in on the fun, please let me know! Together, we can help Stuart feel more at home.

2 thick pieces of bacon, 30 minutes later they are still working on them. Highly recommended.
chickens

2 thick pieces of bacon, 30 minutes later they are still working on them. Highly recommended.

In a delightful bacon escapade, our friend Phil2822 shares the joy of savoring two thick pieces of bacon that have proven to be a cluck-tastic treat—30 minutes later, and they’re still devouring every crispy morsel! This mouthwatering moment is highly recommended for any bacon enthusiast or chicken lover looking to indulge in a little fowl fun. If you’re curious about other quirky poultry tales, check out “Maybe roo?” where a pullet shows some unexpected rooster vibes. Whether you're in it for the bacon or the chickens, there's plenty to sink your teeth into. Dive into the conversation and let’s celebrate those delicious moments that bring us all together!

Red sores all over my rooster’s feet, any idea what could be causing this?
chickens

Red sores all over my rooster’s feet, any idea what could be causing this?

Oh no, it sounds like your rooster might be dealing with some pesky foot issues! Red sores on his feet can be concerning, and there are a few potential culprits to consider. Wet conditions, like the rain you mentioned, could lead to irritation or even early signs of bumblefoot—yikes! It’s also possible that mites or other irritants from the mud are giving your feathered friend a hard time. The fact that the sores are present on both feet suggests it might not be a simple injury. If you’re looking for additional insights, check out our article on separating roosters from hens to help with healing, as it may provide some useful tips. Let’s get your roosters back to strutting around in style!

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

No one warned me that when you are Mother the chicks try to roost on your face

No one warned me that becoming Mother to my chicks would mean the little feathered tornadoes would try to roost on my face! This week, I moved my 7-week-old chicks from their cozy brooder to their new coop, and as night approached, their alarm bells started ringing. Peeking inside, I was greeted by a delightful swarm of cheeping fluffballs. When I sat down to encourage them to roost, I became their favorite perch—five or six of them took the invitation literally, vying for the top spot on my head! It turned charmingly chaotic as they squabbled for space, and I found myself in a protective fetal position, hoping for a peaceful night. With 18 chicks, I truly am in over my head—it's a cluck-tastic adventure!

chickens

Chickens eating eggs

Chickens can be quirky creatures, and it seems yours have developed a taste for their own eggs—yikes! You’re not alone in this feathered dilemma, and many chicken enthusiasts have faced the same egg-eating conundrum. Despite your valiant efforts with mustard and blinders, it looks like your flock might just be too clever for their own good. The good news is that you’ve noticed they’re still laying a few eggs, thanks to the oyster shell making those shells tougher to break. Before you introduce your new chickens, it’s wise to tackle this behavior head-on. If you’re looking for more insights, check out "Dusk to Dawn" for additional tips from fellow chicken keepers navigating similar challenges. Let’s crack this mystery together!

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

I need some help, info, suggestions. PLEASE!

Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is having a bit of a rough time! Seeing a chicken limp can definitely raise some concerns, and it’s completely understandable to seek help. Yes, you can absolutely take her to the vet—many veterinarians are equipped to handle chickens and can provide the care she needs. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to our cluck-tastic companions! In the meantime, try to keep her comfortable and limit her movement as much as possible. If you're looking for some fun insights, check out "They love the stick!" for tips on keeping your chickens entertained while they recover. Don’t hesitate to reach out for advice; the chicken-loving community is here for you!

chickens

separating rooster from hens to heal feathers

If you've found yourself in a feather-fiasco with one of your hens being over-mated, you're not alone! It’s a common chicken conundrum that can leave your poor gal feeling a bit bare on her back. To help her heal and regain her glorious feathers, separating the rooster is a wise move. While he’s temporarily living the bachelor life, it's important to keep him away from the hens for about two to four weeks. This allows your hen the chance to recover without further disturbances. They may still see and hear each other, which can be a little cluck-tastic for them! For more on chicken dynamics, check out our article on "Chickens eating eggs" for tips on keeping your flock happy and healthy.

Dusk to Dawn
chickens

Dusk to Dawn

As the sun dips below the horizon, the world of chickens transitions from the hustle and bustle of daylight to the serene quiet of night. In "Dusk to Dawn," submitted by /u/UnityBurger009, we explore the enchanting and sometimes chaotic life of our feathered friends as they settle in for the evening. From clucking goodnight to the occasional late-night ruckus, this piece captures the essence of chicken life after hours. If you're curious about how to ensure your coop is ready for bedtime shenanigans, check out our article "Looking for feedback," where fellow enthusiasts share their coop-building adventures. Join us as we unravel the delightful mysteries of chicken behavior from dusk till dawn!

Hen or rooster? (Wrong answers only)
chickens

Hen or rooster? (Wrong answers only)

Happy birthday to my fabulous Barred Rock, who just turned six! In honor of this cluck-tastic occasion, we’re diving into the age-old debate: Hen or rooster? But let’s spice it up with some wrong answers only! After all, who needs facts when you can have fun? This birthday boy deserves all the attention, and I’m whipping up a chicken-safe cake to celebrate his big day. If you're curious about the fine line between hens and roosters, check out “Maybe roo?” for some light-hearted confusion on what really makes a chicken a chicken. Let’s raise a beak to our feathered friends and enjoy some giggles along the way!

Maybe roo?
chickens

Maybe roo?

Meet Maybe Roo, a feathered friend who was sold as a pullet but is now strutting around like a true rooster! At first glance, Maybe Roo looked just like the other hens, but it seems Lightning McQueen might be channeling some serious rooster vibes instead, leaving us all in stitches. If you’ve ever found yourself questioning the gender of your chickens, you’re not alone! This delightful mix-up is the kind of fowl fun that keeps chicken enthusiasts on their toes. For more cluck-tastic tales, check out "Rooster Has Bars: Henry the Singing Roosty," where we dive into another hilarious chicken caper. Join the conversation and share your own poultry adventures — who knows what surprises await in the coop!

This one has been bullying another girl and plucking and eating her feathers. Roo or mean girl?
chickens

This one has been bullying another girl and plucking and eating her feathers. Roo or mean girl?

Is your feathered friend channeling her inner mean girl by bullying another hen? It sounds like you might have a case of chicken rivalry on your hands! At about three months old, those pointy feathers could suggest you have a rooster on your hands, but it’s not always a clear-cut situation. Feather plucking can be a distressing behavior, often stemming from boredom, stress, or social dynamics within the flock. To help, consider enriching their environment with toys or treats to keep them entertained, and monitor interactions to foster a harmonious pecking order. If you’re curious about the social antics of chickens, check out our article “Show me your Angry Birds” for more insights on chicken behavior!

FunHenY – Chicken Comedy

🚨 GARBAGE DISPOSAL TEST! Will My Chickens Devour These Leftovers? 🐔🥗

🚨 GARBAGE DISPOSAL TEST! Will My Chickens Devour These Leftovers? 🐔🥗 Ever wondered what your feathered friends might gobble up from your kitchen scraps? In this cluck-tastic experiment, we dive into the world of leftovers and chicken taste tests. From veggie peels to stale bread, we’ll explore what delights their palates and what they might just turn their beaks up at. Spoiler alert: some foods are a definite no-go! Join us for some egg-citing discoveries and a few laughs along the way. And if you’re curious about chicken behavior, don’t miss our article, “Why is she laying like that????” to learn more about those quirky habits. Let’s see if your chickens are ready to become the ultimate garbage disposal!