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.

My alpha chicken. My mean queen. Any name ideas?
Meet My Alpha Chicken — the reigning mean queen of the coop! This fierce black sex link girlie knows how to rule her feathered kingdom with a cluck of confidence. Are you on the hunt for the perfect name that captures her sassy spirit? Whether she’s strutting her stuff or keeping the flock in line, finding a name that reflects her personality is essential. Join the fun and share your ideas! After all, every queen deserves a fitting title. If you’re also navigating the quirks of chicken ownership, check out “Pullets only” Agway said… where we explore the ups and downs of poultry parenting. Let’s dive into the whimsical world of our feathered friends together!

What is it like owning Polish chickens
Owning Polish chickens is like stepping into a whimsical world where feathered friends sport fabulous topknots and personalities that can ruffle even the calmest of souls. These charming birds bring a delightful mix of quirks and charisma to any backyard, making them a favorite among chicken enthusiasts and the chicken-curious alike. With their unique appearance and gentle nature, Polish chickens can be both a source of joy and a little bit of madness as they strut around your yard. If you’re curious about what it’s really like to share your space with these feathered divas, you’ll want to read more about the adventures of Mama Checkers and her little ones in "This Doesn’t Get Old.
Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam
Welcome to the Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream—your front-row seat to all the cluck-tastic antics of our feathered friends, 24/7! Whether you're a seasoned chicken whisperer or someone who might just be chickening out at the thought of these delightful birds, our livestream offers a playful peek into their daily lives. From spontaneous dust baths to quirky neck movements that might leave you scratching your head (just like in our article "Strange Behaviors"), there's never a dull moment! Join our community of chicken enthusiasts as we share laughs, insights, and the occasional fowl play. Tune in and discover the charming chaos of Chicken City—where every moment is egg-citing!

RIP Clementine
Today, I had to say goodbye to my dear Clementine, and my heart feels as heavy as a coop full of rocks. She was more than just a chicken; she was a feathered friend who brought joy and cheeky antics into my life. From her lovely green eggs to her playful nips at my neighbor when I traveled, she was a character with a personality that made every day egg-citing. As I watched her decline, I knew I had to make the tough choice to spare her from a slow death. I hope she knows how much she was loved.

What is it like owning Polish chickens
Owning Polish chickens is like stepping into a whimsical world where every day is filled with clucks and quirks. With their striking crests and charming personalities, these feathered friends bring a delightful mix of beauty and eccentricity to any backyard. However, it’s not all sunshine and egg-citing moments; Polish chickens can be a bit timid and require a gentle touch to thrive. They might just steal your heart while simultaneously making you feel like a chicken wrangler in a comedy show! If you’re curious about the adventures of these unique birds, check out the article "Hidden nest, 11 new kids..." to dive deeper into the joys and surprises of chicken ownership. Get ready for a cluck-tastic journey!

My uncles chicken hitting a pose
Get ready to chuckle as we dive into the world of quirky poultry with “My uncle's chicken hitting a pose,” submitted by u/Jared_dysonheap! This feathered friend is serving up some serious attitude, showing us that chickens can be just as dramatic as any diva. Who knew our feathered companions could strike a pose that rivals the best of Instagram influencers? If this cluck-tastic moment has you craving more chicken antics, be sure to check out “How can I stay at work when this is happening at home?” where u/AcreKe shares the struggle of focusing on work while delightful chicken shenanigans unfold at home. Join the fun and embrace the madness of chicken life with us!

Is this an acceptable amount of open mouthed breathing?
Curious about your chickens' breathing habits? You're not alone! In this post, we're diving into a clip of a black hen and a Bielefelder, both exhibiting some open-mouthed breathing at just 8 weeks old. With the temperature hovering around 79 degrees and a cozy shaded spot under a reflective tarp, it’s a great time for our feathered friends to explore. The black hen was spotted sunbathing earlier, so maybe she's just a tad excited after cooling off! If you’re concerned about their comfort in warmer temps, check out our related article, “Is this wry neck?” for insights on chicken health during hot days. Join the conversation and let's cluck about what’s normal for our quirky companions!

Shoutout to my chicken cam and its insane quality
Get ready for a cluck-tastic shoutout to my chicken cam, which boasts some truly insane quality—if only its “bird recognition” system could keep up! Spoiler alert: it’s hilariously inaccurate. Just the other day, it mistook my lovely barred rock for a pigeon! As frustrating as that might sound, it brings a whole new level of amusement to watching my feathered friends. If you’re also in the chicken-loving (or chicken-fearing) camp, you’ll appreciate the laughs this little gadget brings. Speaking of laughs, don’t miss our article, "Can you guess the correct sound Bluey makes when another chicken dares to walk by *her* nesting?" It’s egg-citing content that’s sure to entertain!

What chicken breed are these stray chickens
Have you ever stumbled upon a gang of stray chickens and wondered about their origins? Well, you're not alone! In this delightful exploration, we dive into the curious case of a stray hen that has laid standard grocery-store-sized white eggs. With her feathered friends roaming freely, we’ll uncover the possible breeds behind this unexpected chicken congregation. Are they just a bunch of clucky misfits or is there a deeper story here? And speaking of unexpected encounters, check out our article titled “I think my chickens are trying to get me arrested,” where one chicken keeper found a hawk in their run! Join us as we crack the mystery and share some egg-citing insights into these wandering birds.

The odds of getting stalked and attacked by an angry ball of yarn may be small, but never zero
The odds of getting stalked and attacked by an angry ball of yarn may be small, but never zero—just ask any cat lover! In the whimsical world of chicken keeping, we often find ourselves navigating the unpredictable quirks of our feathered friends. While yarn may seem like a harmless plaything, it’s a reminder that chaos can lurk in the most unexpected places. Speaking of surprises, have you ever questioned the dynamics of your flock? If so, check out our article "I have a question about pecking order/bullying 🐔" for insights into managing those clucky relationships. Embrace the madness of chicken life, and remember, every day brings new adventures—sometimes even from a ball of yarn!

Do I have a rooster? Cinnamon queens from tractor supply
Are you scratching your head wondering if you’ve got a rooster among your Cinnamon Queens? You’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves in a clucky conundrum, trying to differentiate between roosters and hens. This fun yet puzzling journey is filled with quirky behaviors and identifying traits that can leave even seasoned chicken keepers second-guessing. Fear not, dear reader! Our community is here to help you sort through the feathers and find the answers you seek. If you're also curious about the age of your feathered friends, check out our article, "How old are these silkies?" for more insights. Let’s dive into the delightful world of chickens together!

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! 🐔✨