chickens
chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 3142 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.
The white one reminding everyone who’s boss 🤍
## The White One Reminding Everyone Who’s Boss 🤍 Submitted by /u/LoGalliner, this hilarious snapshot perfectly captures the undeniable personality of a chicken – specifically, *the* chicken. We’ve all encountered one: the assertive, the opinionated, the one who clearly runs the roost. This image is a delightful reminder that even seemingly docile feathered friends possess a surprising amount of… attitude. It’s a cluck-tastic display of poultry power! See a parallel to this dynamic in our recent piece, "Love is blind 😭💔," which explores the sometimes-unpredictable bonds we form with our backyard flock. Share your own stories of dominant chickens in the comments – we want to hear about your feathered overlords!
Found this in my coop today. I’m fairly new at this. Any tips?
## Coop Conundrum: What *Is* This Thing? A mystery object unearthed from a coop – we've all been there! /u/TheDeviledEggvocate stumbled upon an unidentified item and is seeking advice from our community, proving even seasoned chicken keepers face the occasional surprise. As a newbie, you're not alone in feeling a bit bewildered. Don't chickening out! This situation highlights the learning curve of chicken keeping, and we're here to help navigate it. Curious about how chickens interact with their environment, especially in extreme heat? Check out our article, "🔥 106°F TODAY! 🥵 Will Our Chickens Go CRAZY For A Tomato? 🍅🐔 LIVE," for insights into keeping your feathered friends cool and content.
Hen or Roo
## Could Your "Roo" Actually Be a Hen? A Slim Chance! So, you've been told your adorable 10-week-old Orpington is a cockerel destined to crow and face a potential rehoming due to local ordinances? We hear you – it’s heartbreaking when a beloved feathered friend faces such a fate! While it's statistically unlikely, there *is* a tiny chance your cuddly companion could actually be a hen displaying unusually affectionate behavior. It’s not common, but it does happen! Many new owners misidentify young chickens, and sometimes hens simply *love* human interaction more than others. If he’s following you around and enjoying lap time, don’t give up hope just yet.
I left 1/4 acre of grass to turn into wildflowers, just mown it down as most of the flowers have seeded.
## A Wildflower Feast for Feathered Friends! Our community member /u/Icy-Hippopotenuse just shared a cluck-tastic update: a quarter-acre of grass, intentionally left to flourish with wildflowers, has been mown down after a bountiful seeding season. The result? Pure chicken bliss! These feathered friends are absolutely *loving* the fresh, long grass, now brimming with delicious seeds and leftover flower bounty. It's a perfect example of how a little planning can create a truly egg-citing environment for your flock. Want to learn more about identifying unexpected visitors to your coop? Check out our recent article, "Name that breed!!!," for a fun challenge. We're always here to celebrate the joys (and occasional chaos!) of chicken keeping.
Sorted my eggs from 1 week
## Freshly Sorted Eggs - A Cluck-tastic Update! /u/Sgitch has shared a delightful update: their eggs are now sorted from just one week old! This simple, satisfying achievement exemplifies the joys (and occasional challenges) of chicken keeping. We know sorting eggs can feel like a small victory, and we celebrate it with you! This post sparked a flurry of discussion in the comments, proving that even the most routine tasks in the chicken world can generate engaging conversation. For those new to the flock, or facing unexpected developments, you might find our article, "Hen or Roo," helpful in identifying your feathered friends and planning accordingly. Head over to explore that topic further! Thanks, /u/Sgitch, for sharing this egg-citing moment!
What’s their problem 😭
## Decoding the Chicken Drama: What’s Their Problem? 😭 So, your feathered friends are acting…off? You’re not alone! /u/Is4B3ll4-2011-NJFan’s recent post sparked a flurry of concern, and we’re here to help you troubleshoot. Chicken behavior can be baffling, from sudden squabbles to unexplained sadness. It’s a genuine mystery—a bit of fowl play, perhaps? We've compiled a quick guide to common chicken conundrums, exploring everything from illness to hierarchy battles. Check out /u/Halakahiki’s amusing take on chicken creativity in "I had a silly idea yesterday 🐔🤠" for a lighter perspective on these quirky creatures. Stay tuned for more insights and practical advice to keep your flock cluck-tastic and happy!
She or He ?
## She or He? Decoding Chicken Gender – It’s Trickier Than You Think! Determining a chicken's gender before it's fully grown can feel like a game of fowl play, even for seasoned chicken keepers! While some breeds show clear differences early on, many chicks present a perplexing uniformity. Vent sexing, a technique involving a gentle examination, is often employed, but it requires skill and practice. Visual cues like comb size and feather development *can* offer clues, but they're far from foolproof – especially with certain breeds. Unsure where to start? Our article, "What’s their problem 😭," explores the challenges of identifying young chickens, offering real-world insights from our community. Ultimately, patience and observation are your best tools in this cluck-tastic quest!
Help me name the second coop
## Coop Naming Conundrums: Beyond "Turd Avenue" Fellow chicken enthusiasts, we've all been there – staring at a blank slate, desperately seeking the *cluck-tastic* name for our feathered friends' abode. /u/pleplaueee recently shared a similar struggle, seeking a better alternative than "Turd Avenue" for their second coop, honoring their father's childhood home at 709 3rd Ave. While the humor is undeniable (and we appreciate the honesty!), a more fitting tribute is clearly in order. Inspired by the user's initial homage to their grandparents' address, which became “Cluckingham Court,” we understand the desire to create a memorable and playful moniker. Perhaps exploring variations around "709" or incorporating a local landmark could spark inspiration.
hahahaha
## Decoding the Chicken Chaos: A Look at /u/choardstieldsq1's "hahahaha" Sometimes, a simple "hahahaha" speaks volumes. /u/choardstieldsq1’s recent submission captures that feeling – the mix of exasperation and amusement that comes with chicken keeping! We all know the joys of feathered friends, but let’s be honest, they can be delightfully chaotic. This post undoubtedly reflects a moment of that delightful absurdity. Ready to dive deeper into the nitty-gritty of chicken care? Our recent article, "Mites do not give AF about DE…," explores the ongoing battle against coop pests with a refreshingly honest perspective. Whether you're a seasoned poultry pro or just chickening out at the thought of getting started, we’re here to navigate the cluck-tastic world of backyard chickens with you.
Litter barnyard mix hatched yesterday
Yesterday brought a cluck-tastic surprise! A litter of adorable barnyard mix chicks hatched, and we’re already egg-cited to share them with you. Their mama, a stately Black Australorp, is doing a fantastic job brooding – though the mystery of their parentage remains! We suspect either a handsome Blue Cochin or a regal Lavender Orpington is their papa, having left behind five fresh eggs before she claimed the nest. These little ones are a delightful reminder of the unpredictable joys of backyard chicken keeping. Ever wondered about chicken behavior? Our community recently explored similar questions in the article, "What’s their problem 😭," offering a peek into the sometimes-confusing world of our feathered friends.
I GOT MY FIRST EVER EGG
## First Egg Alert! A Cluck-tastic Milestone! Oh. My. Cluck! /u/Hphzrdlylvng just shared the *most* egg-citing news: their first ever egg from their new flock! We're sending virtual high-fives – there’s something truly special about that first find. Amidst the Arizona heat (seriously, 106°F!), a tiny treasure was discovered in the nesting box, prompting a joyous reaction that even skeptical Willow seems to be observing. Suspicions point to Willow as the proud mama, and we're absolutely buzzing with this fresh start. Want to learn more about keeping your flock happy and productive during extreme heat? Check out our recent livestream, "🔥 106°F TODAY! 🥵 Will Our Chickens Go CRAZY For A Tomato? 🍅🐔 LIVE," for tips and tricks!
Mites do not give AF about DE...
## Mites: They’re Not Reading the DE Instruction Manual Let's be clear: diatomaceous earth (DE) isn't the mite-busting miracle cure many believe it to be. After a week of intensive coop cleaning – including deep cleaning, caulking, painting, and a thorough treatment with Elector PSP followed by a generous dusting of DE – we're facing a disheartening reality: the mites are back. And they're not even fazed. They're practically building winter nests in the stuff! As one frustrated chicken keeper discovered, simply throwing DE around isn't a solution. If you’re wrestling with a mite infestation, don't rely solely on DE. We’re moving on to prescription treatments – Exzolt is next on the list – and sending good vibes our way.
Mama teaching kids how to find & hunt insects
## Mama's Bug Hunt: A Chicken-Approved Adventure! Ever wonder what your feathered friends are *really* looking for when they scratch and peck? Join Mama as she teaches her kids the art of insect hunting – a vital skill for happy, healthy chickens (and a surprisingly fun activity for humans, too!). We’ll explore the best spots to find tasty bugs, identify common chicken snacks, and demonstrate how to encourage natural foraging behavior. It’s an egg-citing opportunity to connect with nature and understand your flock's dietary needs. Want to learn more about keeping your chickens cool and comfortable during the summer heat? Check out our recent live stream, "🔥 106°F TODAY! 🥵 Will Our Chickens Go CRAZY For A Tomato? 🍅🐔 LIVE" for valuable tips!
Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam
Welcome to Peckington Square Chicken City, your 24/7 livestream portal into the wonderfully chaotic world of backyard chickens! Join us around the clock as our feathered friends strut, peck, and generally live their best lives. We’ve set up this cam so you can witness the cluck-tastic drama unfold, whether you’re a seasoned poultry enthusiast or just curious about these quirky creatures. Expect egg-citing moments, unexpected antics, and plenty of opportunities to smile. Want to learn more about keeping happy, healthy chickens? Check out our recent article, "Adopted chick success!," to see how a little integration can make a big difference. Grab a seat, settle in, and prepare for a truly fowl-some experience!
🔥 106°F TODAY! 🥵 Will Our Chickens Go CRAZY For A Tomato? 🍅🐔 LIVE
🔥 **106°F TODAY! 🥵 Will Our Chickens Go CRAZY For A Tomato? 🍅🐔 LIVE!** Hold onto your hats, folks – it's a scorcher! We’re facing a cluck-tastic heatwave here, and we’re going live to see how our feathered friends are handling it. Will they seek refuge in the shade, or will the promise of a juicy tomato be enough to tempt them out? Join us for a live peek inside the coop and a bit of chicken chaos as we navigate this egg-citing (and slightly alarming) weather. We'll be observing their behavior and sharing tips for keeping your flock cool and comfortable. If you missed it, our earlier live stream, "🥚 LIVE: Did 102°F Heat Hurt Our Egg Production?
🔥 103°F TODAY! 🥵 Can Our Chickens Beat the Arizona Heat?
🔥 **Triple-Digit Heatwave Alert! Can Our Chickens Handle It?** 🥵 Arizona is scorching today, hitting a cluck-tastic 103°F! We’re keeping a close eye on our feathered friends and their ability to beat the heat. It's a genuine challenge, and we’re documenting every step of the way – from providing ample shade to ensuring constant access to cool water. Will they be okay? Will they start craving watermelon (or worse)? Tune in as we navigate this Arizona heatwave and share practical tips for keeping your own flock safe. For a deeper dive into the challenges of extreme heat and its impact on egg production, check out our recent live coop check: "🥚 LIVE: Did 102°F Heat Hurt Our Egg Production? Arizona Coop Check."
I love being a chicken tender 🐔 #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #BackyardChickens #FarmAnimals
## Welcome to the Cluck-tastic World of Krissy's Chickens! 🐔 I’m thrilled to share my journey as a chicken tender – a title I wear with a healthy mix of affection and, let's be honest, a little bit of playful apprehension! Join me as I navigate the joys and occasional chaos of backyard chickens and farm animal life. It's a *cluck-tastic* adventure, full of feathered friends, fresh eggs, and the constant thrill of the unexpected. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting to consider welcoming chickens into your life, you're in the right place. We’ll explore everything from egg-citing recipes to essential care tips. Speaking of eggs, you might find our article on the surprisingly versatile quail egg quite interesting!
Natural Rosemary Lavender Mascara Remover
Tired of harsh chemicals stripping your lashes and irritating your delicate eye area? Introducing our Natural Rosemary Lavender Mascara Remover – a cluck-tastic solution for gently and effectively removing even stubborn mascara! This homemade recipe harnesses the soothing power of rosemary and lavender, creating a skin-friendly alternative you can feel good about. It’s egg-citingly simple to make with just a few natural ingredients you likely already have on hand. Discover the benefits of this gentle remover and reclaim your evening skincare routine. For more heartwarming stories about our feathered friends and their impact on daily life, check out "Adopted chick success!" and see how a little kindness goes a long way.
🕷️ Will Our Chicken Eat This Spider? LIVE Experiment! 🐔😱
## 🕷️ Will Our Chicken Eat This Spider? LIVE Experiment! 🐔😱 Ever wondered if your feathered friends have a taste for eight-legged critters? We're putting it to the cluck-tastic test! Join us LIVE as we introduce a (very carefully managed!) spider into the Peckington Square coop and observe the hilarious, and potentially startling, reactions of our chickens. Will it be a snack? A frantic chase? Or total chicken indifference? Prepare for fowl play and plenty of suspense! This is a must-see for anyone fascinated by chicken behavior – or just loves a little bit of quirky chaos. For a broader look at coop life and environmental factors, check out our recent livestream, "🥚 LIVE: Did 102°F Heat Hurt Our Egg Production? Arizona Coop Check."
This did not go as planned but at least the chickens enjoyed their snack 🤮 Also side note- the
## When Chicken Snacks Go Sideways (and the Chickens Win!) 🤮 Well, folks, let’s just say today’s enrichment activity didn’t *quite* go as planned. A minor… incident… involving a scattering of treats and a rather enthusiastic flock resulted in a less-than-perfect situation. At least our feathered friends clearly enjoyed their unexpected snack! We’re laughing (and cleaning up) now, but it serves as a good reminder that even the best-laid plans can get a little… cluck-tastic. Speaking of keeping our chickens happy and healthy, you might be surprised to learn that chickens *can* eat grapes and blueberries – check out our article, "I’m not sure where this myth originated- but chickens can eat grapes and blueberries," for more on that!
The quail eggs are so cute! Did you know you can use quail eggs the same ways you use chicken eggs?
## Tiny Eggs, Big Possibilities: Exploring Quail Eggs Aren't quail eggs just *adorable*? These petite powerhouses are gaining popularity, and for good reason! You might be surprised to learn that you can use quail eggs in virtually the same way you use chicken eggs – baking, frying, scrambling, you name it. Their rich, slightly gamey flavor adds a unique twist to your favorite recipes. While smaller, they pack a nutritional punch and are a delightful addition to any meal. Want to delve deeper into the charm of quail eggs? Check out our article, "The quail eggs are so cute! Did you know you can use quail eggs the same ways you use chicken eggs?" for more egg-cellent insights!
The quail eggs are so cute! Did you know you can use quail eggs the same ways you use chicken eggs?
Aren't quail eggs just the *cluck-tastic* cutest? These tiny treasures are surprisingly versatile – you can use them exactly as you would chicken eggs in baking, scrambles, or even for a delicate omelet. Don't let their size fool you; they're packed with flavor and a whole lot of egg-citing potential! We’re completely charmed by their miniature magnificence, and we think you will be too. Want to delve deeper into the quirky world of backyard poultry? Check out our recent piece, "I know her eggs aren’t as fancy or colorful as some others- but I just adore the little speckles on," for a heartwarming look at appreciating the unique beauty of every egg.
🔥 102°F TODAY! 🌡️ Can Our Chickens Beat the Arizona Heat?
## 🔥 102°F TODAY! 🌡️ Can Our Chickens Beat the Arizona Heat? Yikes! Arizona is turning up the heat, and our feathered friends are feeling it. Today’s forecast hits a sizzling 102°F – that’s a serious challenge for anyone, let alone a flock of chickens. We’re monitoring our girls closely, implementing our heat-busting strategies, and documenting everything for you. Staying cool isn't just about comfort; it's about ensuring healthy, happy hens and a steady egg supply. Join us as we navigate this heatwave and share practical tips for keeping your chickens safe and sound. Want a deeper dive into the situation? Check out our recent article, "🔥 103°F TODAY! 🥵 Can Our Chickens Beat the Arizona Heat?" to learn more about our preparations.
🔥 105°F TODAY! 🥵 Our Chickens Are BEGGING for AC! ❄️🐔
🔥 **Heatwave Alert! Our Chickens Need Cooling Down!** 🥵 It's a cluck-tastic 105°F today, and our feathered friends are *begging* for some relief! We're prioritizing their comfort with extra shade, cool water, and creative cooling solutions—because happy chickens lay happy eggs! This extreme heat can stress chickens, impacting their health and egg production. We're closely monitoring the flock and sharing real-time updates. Want to see how we’re tackling the heat and whether a juicy tomato might just save the day? Check out our live stream, "🔥 106°F TODAY! 🥵 Will Our Chickens Go CRAZY For A Tomato? 🍅🐔 LIVE." Stay tuned for more updates and tips on keeping your flock cool and comfortable during these scorching temperatures! ❄️🐔