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.
Dog problems?
Dog drama in the chicken coop? You’re not alone! This morning, I heard a ruckus and dashed outside, half-expecting to find my pups playing tag with my feathered friends. Instead, I was greeted by a large husky with my favorite hen in his mouth! Talk about a heart-stopping moment! I gave chase, but as any husky owner knows, they’re speed demons. With just three hens left and one turning out to be a rooster, my morning took a nosedive. After some detective work, I discovered this rambunctious pup has been terrorizing the neighborhood—snatching rabbits and leaving chaos in his wake. Have you faced similar canine capers? Share your stories, and let’s cluck about how to keep our chickens safe!
I have a question about pecking order/bullying 🐔
Are you navigating the pecking order drama in your flock? You’re not alone! It sounds like your last group of four chicks is strutting their stuff a bit too aggressively, and that’s not uncommon when introducing newcomers. Chickens can be quirky creatures, and sometimes those at the bottom of the pecking order feel the need to assert themselves—often at the expense of the newbies. It’s a wild world in the coop! To help balance the dynamics, consider providing plenty of hiding spots and space for the new chicks to escape the bullies. And speaking of strange behaviors, you might want to check out our article "Strange Behaviors" for more insights into chicken antics. Remember, every flock has its quirks, so hang in there!
Does Rosi need a saddle?
Is Rosi, our beloved Brahma girl, in need of a saddle? Despite being the Roo's favorite—who, let’s face it, is only a third of her size—she's looking a bit rough around the edges. While her skin is intact, she’s lost quite a few of her gorgeous feathers, leaving us all a bit concerned. To add to the excitement, Rosi seems to be pondering the idea of going broody, though she’s still on the fence about it. If you're curious about similar chicken adventures, check out our article "Roo or hen?" where we dive into the age-old question of chick gender confusion. Join the conversation and see how our feathered friends navigate their quirks!
Battle of the Hens. Choose your fighter.
Welcome to the ultimate showdown: the **Battle of the Hens!** It’s time to pick your fighter and join in on the fun as our feathered friends face off in a cluck-tastic contest of quirks and antics. Will you cheer for the broody hen who just can’t seem to keep her feathers straight, or the sassy diva who struts around like she owns the coop? With all the personality of a reality show, these hens are ready to battle it out for your affection—bonus points if you can guess which one my son named! For more chicken shenanigans, don’t miss the hilarious tale of a “Broody hen gets a cold bath: story at 11.” Let the games begin!
Strange Behaviors
Is your feathered friend putting on a bizarre neck show? It sounds like your chicken is engaging in some quirky behavior that has left you and your partner scratching your heads! Those unusual neck movements—almost like a chicken yoga session—could be a sign of discomfort or something more playful. Since she’s still munching and drinking like a champ, that’s a good sign, but it’s worth keeping a watchful eye. Feather loss around the neck might indicate she’s dealing with a pesky pest or just some pecking order drama. If you're curious about other strange chicken phenomena, check out our article on “weird white spots on comb” for insights that might help. Let’s get to the bottom of this chicken caper together!
Mama and baby
Meet the fierce yet adorable mother hen who embodies the spirit of Icelandic chickens! She might look cute, but don't let that fool you—this gal is a protective powerhouse. After disappearing for three weeks, she returned with two little chicks in tow, proving just how dedicated she is to her feathered family. It's moments like these that make chick season so egg-citing! If you're just as fascinated by the antics of adorable chicks and the quirky behaviors of hens, be sure to check out our article titled "Why is the chick making this sound," where we dive into the mysteries of chick sounds and behaviors.
8 week old Salmon Faverolle
Is your 8-week-old Salmon Faverolle a hen or a rooster? This delightful dilemma is one many chicken enthusiasts face, especially when purchasing unsexed chicks from feed stores. Salmon Faverolles are known for their charming personalities and striking appearance, but determining their gender can be a bit of a cluck-tastrophe! The good news is that at eight weeks, there are some telltale signs to look for, such as comb size and feather development. If you’re curious about the social dynamics in your flock, you might also want to check out our article on "I have a question about pecking order/bullying 🐔," where we discuss integrating new chicks into an established group. Let’s dive into the feathered mystery of your little friend!
What breed is this bonus chick
What could that bonus chick be? If it’s the only meat bird flaunting a stripe down its back, you might just have a delightful surprise on your hands! Many chicken enthusiasts often wonder about the mysterious breeds that pop up in their orders, and this little feathered friend could be an exciting addition to your flock. With its unique marking, it could very well be a breed like the Cornish Cross, known for its meaty frame and distinctive appearance. If you’re curious about your new companion, don’t hesitate to dive deeper into chicken breeds! And speaking of delightful discoveries, check out "My favorite part of the morning," where we explore the joy of letting our chicks roam in their backyard. Happy chicken keeping!
🥶 93°F = WINTER?! ❄️ | Arizona Chicken Coop Check & Egg Collection
Welcome to a cluck-tastic exploration of what winter means in the desert! In Arizona, where the thermometer can hit 93°F, you might be scratching your head—how can this be winter? Join us as we take you on a whimsical journey through our chicken coop check and egg collection, showcasing how our feathered friends thrive in unexpected temperatures. We’ll share tips on keeping your coop cozy, even when the sun is blazing, and how to ensure your chickens are happy and healthy. Plus, don’t miss our related article, “STOP Letting Your Chicken Run Turn Into a Mud Pit,” for more insights on maintaining a vibrant chicken paradise. Let’s dive into the madness of winter in Arizona together!
Broody hen gets a cold bath: story at 11
In a cluck-tastic twist of fate, one broody hen found herself in a rather chilly situation—a cold bath! Join us for the full story at 11, submitted by the ever-amusing u/Therealfern1. This feathered friend’s escapade is sure to ruffle some feathers and spark laughter among chicken enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just enjoy the quirky antics of our fowl pals, you won't want to miss this hilarious tale. And if you’re curious about what it’s like to have chickens that seem like they’ve stepped straight out of a prehistoric era, check out our article, “You’d think they were the descendants of dinosaurs or something 🤪🤣 #KrissysChickens #PetChickens” for more egg-citing insights!
Hen or rooster? Its breed?
Are you scratching your head over whether your spirited little chick is a hen or a rooster? This cheeky bundle of energy, which you rescued from the roadside, has already made a splash with its speedy antics! At about three weeks old, it’s not just adorable but also a mystery waiting to be solved. Knowing the breed could help you understand its personality and care needs better. If you're curious to dive deeper into chicken breeds or sorting out the gender of your feathered friends, check out our article “8 Week Ameraucana.” Join the conversation in our community and let’s unravel this feathered enigma together!
Is Blanche a cockerel?
Is Blanche a cockerel? If you’re new to the delightful world of chickens, you may be wondering about the telltale signs of gender in your feathered friends. With Blanche’s comb growing larger, thick legs, and a pointy tail, it’s no wonder you’re feeling a bit concerned. Many chicken keepers have been in your shoes, anxiously trying to decipher whether their birds are hens or roosters. While it can be tough to tell at such a young age, there’s hope that it’s still too early to make a definitive call. For more insights on this puzzling topic, check out our article "Are these hens or Roos?" to see how others navigated their own chicken gender mysteries. Your worries are valid, and we’re here to help!
Freya and Herculia
Meet Freya and Herculia, two adorable mixed-color silkies who hatched on April 9, 2026! With their fluffy feathers and charming personalities, it's hard not to fall in love with these cuties—even if we're still on the fence about whether they're girls or guys. The mystery adds a sprinkle of excitement to our daily chicken adventures! If you're curious about the nuances of identifying your feathered friends, check out our article “Are these hens or Roos?” where fellow chicken enthusiasts share their experiences with unsexed chicks. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just dipping your toes into the whimsical world of chickens, Freya and Herculia are sure to steal your heart—and maybe even your snacks! 🐔✨
Had to say goodbye to Potato this morning. I wish she could’ve told me what was wrong so that I could’ve helped. She was a good chicken.
This morning, we had to say a heartfelt goodbye to Potato, and it’s never easy losing one of our feathered friends. The bond we share with our chickens runs deep, and when they can’t communicate their troubles, it leaves us feeling helpless. Potato was a good chicken, full of quirks and personality that made her truly special. If only she could have told us what was wrong, maybe we could have helped her. Losing a chicken reminds us of the unique challenges and joys of chicken-keeping. For those navigating similar experiences, check out our article "Anyone know what’s wrong with my chicken?" for insights and support from the community. Remember, you’re not alone in this chicken journey.
8 Week Ameraucana
Are you peering into the world of Ameraucana chicks and wondering if you've got yourself a couple of roosters on your hands? You're not alone! With their combs looking a tad darker in photos, it’s easy to get second thoughts about those feathered friends. Fear not—at 8 weeks old, many clues can help you determine their gender. While crowing and saddle feathers are classic indicators, you might just be in the clear for now. If you're curious about how to spot a rooster versus a hen, check out our article, "Roo or hen?" for more insights. Join the cluck-tastic conversation and let’s unravel the mystery of your Ameraucana duo together!
Roo or hen?
Are you scratching your head over whether your chicks are actually hens or roosters? You're not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts, like our friend /u/purpleflowerfrankie, find themselves in this clucky conundrum. When you purchase chicks, there's always a chance the sexing could be a little off, leading to questions and uncertainty. If you’re new to the world of poultry, understanding the difference can feel like a feathered mystery. But fear not! We’re here to help unravel that riddle. For a delightful peek into the world of baby chicks, check out our article "Look at my baby chick" to see just how adorable these little ones can be! Let’s dive into the quirky world of chicken gender identification together!
Meet Buttercup, Baby Lumi & Baby Luna
Meet Buttercup, the adventurous hen who recently welcomed her adorable chicks, Lumi and Luna! Just two weeks old, these little fluffballs discovered their flying skills at a mere 8 or 9 days old and have already taken their first leap into the world—literally! Tonight, Buttercup decided it was time for her babies to move up from their cozy ground nest to a roosting spot about 9 feet high. Unfortunately, her chosen roost is my garage storage shelves, and while I’m not thrilled about it, I can’t resist Buttercup’s charm. She makes motherhood look so cute! It might be time to invest in a proper chicken coop, but for now, I’m enjoying this cluck-tastic family moment. Check out “Battle of the Hens. Choose your fighter.
Baby Meatball
Meet Meatball, our adorable three-week-old runt who’s stealing hearts despite being less than half the size of her feathered friends! This little lady isn’t getting bullied—she’s out and about, but her nerves kick in when the bigger chicks start their rambunctious antics, often leaving her feeling a bit overwhelmed. To give her a boost, we’ve been mixing vitamins with water and egg yolk, hoping to help her thrive. As the others grow bigger and prepare to venture outside, we're pondering whether to add a new baby chick for company or keep them all indoors for Meatball’s sake. No matter the outcome, I’m committed to ensuring she stays healthy and happy. It’s been a chaotic but delightful journey as a first-time chick parent!
Coop Floor/Bedding
Welcome to the cluck-tastic world of chicken keeping! It sounds like you’re off to a great start with your six feathered ladies, but let’s address your coop concerns. While dirt flooring is common, it's important to ensure proper bedding. Straw can retain moisture and harbor pests, so switching to pine shavings is a wise move. Pine shavings are absorbent and less likely to attract mites or lice, which is understandably a big worry for you, especially with little ones and a dog around. If you're curious about whether your hens are showing signs of pests, you might find our article, "Sanity check," helpful as it dives into common issues with chicken legs. Let’s keep those ladies happy and healthy!
Will Yews Kill my Chickens?
Are you worried that your yard's Japanese Yew trees might pose a danger to your newly adopted feathered friends? You're not alone! While it's true that Yews are known for being toxic to both humans and chickens, the actual risk to your chickens may not be as dire as it seems. Many chicken keepers haven't reported poisoning issues, despite the alarming warnings. However, it's essential to stay informed and vigilant. If you’re facing a yard fully surrounded by these plants, you might be wondering if keeping chickens is a bad idea. Before making any drastic decisions, check out our article, "Does Rosi need a saddle?" for tips on keeping your chickens safe and happy in challenging environments. Let's dive into this cluck-tastic conundrum together!
STOP Letting Your Chicken Run Turn Into a Mud Pit 🐔🌧️Description:
Is your chicken run turning into a mud pit? 🐔🌧️ It’s time to tackle that soggy situation before your feathered friends become reluctant swimmers! A muddy run not only makes your chickens less than clucky, but it can also lead to health issues and unhappy hens. In this article, we’ll explore delightful solutions to keep your chicken run dry and functional, ensuring your flock stays happy and healthy. Plus, we’ll share tips that even the most novice chicken keepers can handle. If you’re also puzzled about your chickens’ gender, don’t miss our article "First time raising chickens," where we help you decode those crowing mysteries! Let’s dive into the world of happy, dry chickens!
Filming my rooster. Hen wanted to say hi
Get ready for a cluck-tastic adventure with our favorite feathered friends! In this delightful submission from u/AustinRatBuster, we dive into the whimsical world of roosters and hens. Picture this: a charming rooster strutting his stuff while a curious hen pops in to say hi. It's a heartwarming glimpse into the quirky dynamics of chicken life that will surely bring a smile to your face. If you’re a fan of chicken antics, don’t miss our related article, "Broody hen gets a cold bath: story at 11," where you can discover more about the hilariously unpredictable lives of these lovable birds. So, grab your popcorn and prepare for some poultry fun!
look at my baby chick
Have you ever laid eyes on a baby chick and thought, “Wow, that’s cuteness overload?” Well, prepare for an adorable experience as we dive into the world of fluffy little peeps! Submitted by u/Which-Appearance-220, this post showcases a charming baby chick that’s sure to steal your heart. With their tiny feathers and goofy antics, baby chicks bring a special kind of joy that can brighten any day. If you’re curious about other delightful chick experiences, check out the article "My favorite part of the morning," where morning chick adventures unfold in a backyard paradise. So, let’s cluck our way into the cuteness and celebrate our feathered friends together!
A late night visitor
In a delightful turn of events, a late-night visitor dropped by, and instead of causing chaos, it left with nothing but a tasty egg! Fear not, fellow chicken lovers—no feathered friends were harmed in the making of this whimsical encounter. Imagine the scene: a curious creature sneaking around the coop, and what better way to win its favor than with a delicious egg? This charming tale reminds us that even unexpected visitors can lead to lighthearted moments in our chicken-keeping adventures. If you’re intrigued by the quirks of chicken life, check out “Last year our pullets were all pullets… this year could we be so lucky?” for more egg-citing stories from our community!