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.

I rescued two chicks!
What a cluck-tastic rescue story! When your friend gifted two adorable 7-day-old Brahma chicks as a joke, it turned into a heartwarming adventure for both you and your feathered friends. Luckily, you stepped in just in time to save them from the chilly 15°C temperatures, setting them up in a cozy bunny cage with a heat lamp and soft bedding. Now that they’re settling in, it sounds like they’ve had quite the day! If you find that keeping these little fluffballs isn’t in the cards for you, don’t worry—shelters can be a great option for finding them a loving home. By the way, if you’re new to the chicken-keeping game, check out “Help to confirm Cream Legbar sex” for some helpful insights!

Bought these from vendor, idk if the will survive...
Oh, the cluck-tastrophe of raising chicks from a vendor! It sounds like you’ve found yourself in quite the feathered pickle. With the sweltering heat and those painted little ones, it’s no wonder you’re feeling a bit anxious about their survival. Chickens can be surprisingly resilient, but they also have their quirks—like needing a cozy environment without too much temperature fluctuation. Hand-feeding and providing a little garden time is egg-citing, but be cautious not to overdo it. If you haven’t already, you might want to check out our article, "What breeds and is one a rooster?" for some helpful insights. Remember, every chick is a unique little character, and with some extra TLC, you may just have a flock of happy, healthy feathered friends!

My rooster keeps playing with slippers all the time 😃
Is your rooster the ultimate slipper enthusiast? 🐔💖 Submitted by /u/Sunflower_Lover_09, this delightful tale of a rooster's quirky obsession with footwear is sure to make you chuckle! It seems our feathered friends have a flair for the whimsical, and who can blame them for finding joy in the soft embrace of slippers? If you've ever found yourself in a similar predicament—or perhaps you’re navigating the ups and downs of rooster behavior—check out our article, "Any tips on how to get this guy to be nicer?" to uncover insights on managing those moody moods. Join the conversation and share your own cluck-tastic stories in the comments! Your quirky chicken adventures await!

Creme Legbar vs Prairie Blubell
In the delightful world of poultry, comparing the Creme Legbar and Prairie Bluebell at three weeks old is as intriguing as it is fun! The Creme Legbar typically showcases a lighter, more timid demeanor, and it seems you’ve spotted one in the back with less tuft development. Meanwhile, those feisty chicks in the front with tufts may be Prairie Bluebells, known for their quirky personalities. It’s fascinating how these traits can vary even at such a young age! If you’re curious about the playful dynamics of chicken breeds, check out our article titled "So if people with bees are beekeepers...": Are we chicken tenders? It’s a feathered adventure worth clucking about!

is my hen broody?
Is your hen broody? It sounds like she might be! When a hen settles into the coop and starts growling at you—especially while puffing up her feathers—it’s a classic sign of broodiness. The fact that she’s been hoarding an egg (not hers) adds to the evidence! If she’s not interested in your rooster’s advances, that’s another clue. As for those adorable 4-week-old chicks, sneaking them under her could work, but be cautious. Introducing new chicks can lead to fowl play with the rest of your flock, especially if they’re not too fond of newcomers. For more insights on chicken health and behavior, check out our article on "New sick chicken.
Umm questions about chicken eggs?
Got questions about chicken eggs? You’re not alone! One of our fellow chicken enthusiasts, /u/Ken_koneki, found themselves in a bit of a cluck-tastrophe with a broody hen. After welcoming some adorable chicks into the world, they discovered that one little egg hatched without the mother hen keeping a watchful eye, leading to a heartbreaking outcome. Now, they’re left wondering what to do with the remaining eggs—is it time to move them to a cozy, warm spot or leave them with mom? If you’re scratching your head over similar situations, you’ll find helpful insights in our article, “HELP. Not sure what to do with this ivermectin that came in.” Let’s dive into the world of chicken care and egg hatching together!

Chicken attacked by raccoon
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend has had quite the tussle with a raccoon! First off, kudos for grabbing Vetericyn to help her heal—it's a cluck-tastic choice for minor wounds. Since her wing is torn but not actively bleeding, that’s a good sign, but the bleeding from her comb does need some attention. Keep her in a quiet space, like your dog's crate, to minimize stress while she recovers. Make sure she has water and some easy-to-digest food nearby. Keep an eye on her for any signs of infection or distress. And if you're looking for a little distraction, check out the adorable antics in “My rooster keeps playing with slippers all the time 😃.” Wishing your chicken a speedy recovery!

Maybe a silly question
Ah, the joys of being a first-time chicken parent! It sounds like you’ve got quite the feathered conundrum on your hands. With thunderstorms looming, it’s perfectly natural to worry about your little cluckers. Since they’re still figuring out their coop routine, it might be wise to gently guide them back inside before the storm rolls in. Chickens can be a bit clueless about weather warnings—trust me, I’ve seen my fair share of “chickening out!” However, your husband has a point; they’ll need to adapt to less-than-perfect weather eventually. If they’re covered in their run, they should be safe, but a little extra care never hurts! For more insights on chicken care, check out “Chickens Losing Feathers” for some helpful tips on their well-being.

What’s going on?
What’s going on with your flock? It sounds like your black copper marans are having a bit of a rough winter! Losing feathers and weight can be concerning, especially when it’s not affecting your rooster and reds. While your girls seem lively and healthy otherwise, feather loss often raises questions. It’s great that you’ve already wormed them, but there could be other factors at play, like stress or nutritional deficiencies. You might also want to consider the environment and any recent changes that could be impacting their well-being. If you’re looking for more insights, check out our article “break my heart gently 🐔🐔🐔,” where fellow enthusiasts share their experiences with feathered friends. Let’s get to the bottom of this cluck-tastic mystery together!

Very sleepy trying so hard to stay awake :)) also his little chirps 😭 i hope he stays this loving forever
Meet the adorable little sleepyhead who’s fighting hard to stay awake while offering the most heart-melting chirps! Submitted by u/Mothmans_, this charming feathered friend captures our hearts with his lovable antics. There’s something truly special about those moments when a sleepy chicken leans into love, and we can’t help but hope he stays this affectionate forever. If you’re also navigating the ups and downs of chicken companionship, you might enjoy reading about Tater, who loves to nuzzle under her owner’s arm. She could cuddle all day if given the chance! Join the conversation and share your own delightful chicken stories—after all, our feathered friends have a way of bringing us together, even in the sleepiest of moments.
Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam
Welcome to Peckington Square Chicken City, where the clucks never stop! Our 24/7 livestream cam offers a front-row seat to the delightful antics of our feathered friends, showcasing their quirky personalities and playful shenanigans. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone still chickening out from getting your own flock, this cam invites you to join in on the fun. You might even find inspiration to dive into chicken ownership—just like our friend who “finally caved and got chickens” despite initial hesitations! So grab your popcorn and settle in for some egg-citing moments with our charming poultry pals. Tune in anytime to experience the joy, laughter, and occasional fowl play that makes Peckington Square a true chicken paradise!

Any ideas on this silkie??
Got a silkie that’s strutting around with a bit more attitude than your other feathered friends? At about 8 weeks old, it's not uncommon for these fluffballs to show their personality—sometimes a bit too much! If you’re raising a hen-only household, it’s essential to figure out if this little one is a rooster in disguise. Roosters can have a tendency to be more assertive, and they often bring the drama (and possibly some crowing) to the coop. If you’re in a bind, check out the article “My two beauties, what breed could they be?” for insights on identifying your birds. Let’s dive into the quirks of your silkie and find out what’s really going on with this feisty fowl!
Leaving store with 5 chicks, is there a ‘welcome to chicken life’ starter guide?
Congratulations on your new feathered friends! Welcoming five chicks—two barred, two buff Orpingtons, and a sapphire gem—into your life is an egg-citing adventure. As you step into the world of chicken parenting, you’ve got the essentials: a brooder plate, medicated food, a water container, pine shavings, and a cozy container for their new home. But what else do you need to ensure their happy and healthy start? Fear not! This “Welcome to Chicken Life” starter guide will help you navigate the early days with your chicks. And if you're pondering about what to do during a thunderstorm with your new pals, check out “Maybe a Silly Question” for some comforting insights. Get ready for a cluck-tastic journey ahead!

A word of caution…
A word of caution: chickens are weird, and their quirky antics can leave you scratching your head. Take my lavender Orpingtons, for example—they share a single brain cell, much like those orange cats we all know and love. Recently, one of “the grays” stood against the new fencing, staring across the driveway like she was contemplating life’s mysteries. I figured she was just being her goofy self, but a closer look revealed something more concerning. After some feather trimming, I discovered she had a Velcro plant stay wrapped around her body, completely hidden from view. Even the silliest birds have a way of signaling when they need help! For more chicken capers, check out "Chicken attacked by raccoon" for a dose of poultry drama.
So if people with bees are beekeepers...
So if we have beekeepers tending to their buzzing buddies, does that make us chicken tenders? It’s a delightful question that tickles the imagination and brings a chuckle! As we navigate the whimsical world of chickens, we find ourselves in a quirky love-hate relationship with our feathered friends—sometimes they charm us, and other times, they leave us feeling a bit flustered. If you’re scratching your head about what it truly means to be a chicken tender, you’re not alone! Dive deeper into our playful exploration of these enchanting creatures and check out “Is there a breed of chicken that looks like this?” for more cluck-tastic insights. After all, whether we're tending or just admiring, there’s always something to chirp about!

A chicken’s-eye view after I rescued a little one from the window well
Ever wondered what goes through a chicken's mind during a rescue operation? In this delightful piece submitted by /u/Moonpotato11, we get a cluck-tastic glimpse into the world of a little chicken who found itself in quite the pickle—trapped in a window well! Join us as we explore the quirky antics and adventurous spirit of our feathered friends, all while celebrating the heartwarming moments that come from rescuing them. If you’re a first-time chicken parent feeling a bit overwhelmed, you might also enjoy “Maybe a silly question,” where fellow chicken enthusiasts share their thoughts on rainy day antics. So, grab your sense of humor and dive into this whimsical story that’s sure to ruffle your feathers in the best way possible!

Follow up post from January. She doing well
Great news, chicken aficionados! Our little feathered friend who had a slow start is thriving, thanks to some extra TLC and patience. It’s heartwarming to see her blossom into a spirited member of the flock, proving that a little love goes a long way. If you’re curious about the ups and downs of raising chickens, you might find our article, "HELP. Not sure what to do with this ivermectin that came in," particularly enlightening. It dives into common challenges chicken keepers face, from health concerns to flock dynamics. Join us in celebrating this cluck-tastic journey and share your own experiences with your feathered friends in the comments! We can’t wait to hear your stories!

Chickens losing feathers
Are your feathered friends looking a bit more... naked than usual? If you’ve noticed some of your chickens losing feathers on their necks, heads, and backs, you’re not alone! Feather loss can be caused by a variety of factors, and it’s not always a sign of trouble. With 14 chickens in one coop, boredom or overcrowding could be culprits, but it’s essential to rule out other issues like stress or nutritional deficiencies. While you’ve checked for mites (good job!), keep an eye on their behavior and environment. For more insights on managing your flock, check out our article, "Any ideas on this silkie??" to explore the quirks of chicken personalities! Let’s keep those feathers flying!

Is there a breed of chicken that looks like this?
Have you ever stumbled upon a chicken that made you do a double-take, wondering, “Is there a breed of chicken that looks like this?” Well, you’re not alone! Our friend /u/Special_Inspector_97 has posed this quirky question, and we’re here to help unravel the mystery of our feathered friends’ fascinating appearances. Chickens come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, often leaving us scratching our heads. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just someone captivated by chicken antics, this discussion is sure to ruffle some feathers (in a good way). While you’re here, don’t forget to check out our article, "CONFUSION at hardware store," for a light-hearted take on the chicken-related mishaps we can all relate to!

New sick chicken
Oh no, it sounds like your Ameraucana has found herself in a bit of a cluck-tastrophe! While it’s fantastic news that your other chicken has made a full recovery, it’s concerning to hear about this sudden change in your feathered friend. A bloated belly and a penguin-like stance can indicate several issues, so it’s wise to seek guidance from fellow chicken enthusiasts. Have you checked for signs of distress or changes in her eating habits? It might also be worth exploring our article, “Creme Legbar vs Prairie Bluebell,” to see if any insights there could help. Let’s rally together as a community to get your Ameraucana back on her feet—and strutting like the fabulous bird she is!

Snuggly new chicken
Meet our newest feathered friend—a delightful little pullet with a zombie twist! We hadn’t planned on adding a zombie chicken to our flock, but her unique look was simply irresistible. Surprisingly, she’s already proving to be sweet and snuggly, which has us pondering—are zombie chickens typically this affectionate? It took some time for our other chickens to warm up and trust us enough for snuggles, so we’re curious if this is a common trait among the undead of the chicken world. If you're as intrigued as we are, you might want to check out our previous article, "Sudden Rooster Death - ?!?" for more insights into the quirky lives of our feathered friends. Join us as we continue this cluck-tastic journey!
Sudden Rooster Death - ?!?
Sudden rooster death can be a perplexing and heartbreaking experience, especially when it strikes a healthy, young cockerel like yours. It sounds like you were developing a delightful bond with your Black Copper Marans, who was just starting to show his personality. The signs you described—food present in his mouth and esophagus, but no sour crop—raise concerns but also leave many questions unanswered. Choking could be one explanation, but it’s puzzling given the smooth consistency of the food. You're right to consider reaching out to your breeder for insights and potentially another charming cockerel. If you’re seeking similar experiences or advice, check out "Umm questions about chicken eggs?" for more on the quirky world of our feathered friends. Let’s unravel this mystery together!

Why did this 4 week old little man squat like a hen
Have you ever caught your little chick squatting like a hen and wondered what in the cluck is going on? Fear not! It’s a common behavior, especially for young roosters. They often mimic the hens around them as they explore their newfound world and learn the ropes of chicken life. Squatting can indicate curiosity, a desire for comfort, or even a prelude to more confident behaviors as they grow. If your feathered friend is otherwise acting normal, there’s a good chance he’s just fine! For more insights into chicken behavior, check out our article “Is My Hen Broody?” to dive deeper into the delightful quirks of our feathered pals.

CONFUSION at hardware store, I wanted 'chick grit' and they kept saying over and over 'pullet or hen' ?
Picture this: you stroll into a hardware store, ready to snag some chick grit for your tiny feathered friends, only to be met with a perplexing question—“Pullet or hen?” It’s like asking for baby clothes and being told to choose between teen or adult sizes! As someone with two-week-old chicks, I’m convinced they’re still in the chick phase, regardless of their future as pullets or roosters. Interestingly, some in the industry define pullets as female chicks from day one, which adds to the confusion. So, what’s the best way to order fine grit for your little ones? Let’s crack this nut together and see what everyone’s using.