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.
Dirty diva, chicken experts please chime in :(
Hey, chicken enthusiasts! We’ve got a bit of a cluck-tastrophe on our hands with Copper, our five-year-old lady who’s facing some serious butt troubles. After a traumatic coyote incident, we’ve been extra vigilant, but now it seems Miss Copper is dealing with a sticky situation involving a possible yeast infection or vent gleet. We’ve tried cleaning her up and applying Monistat, but there’s a stubborn mass that just won’t budge. We’re all about keeping our feathered friends happy and healthy, so any advice on curing this and preventing future mishaps would be egg-citing! If you’re looking for more chicken wisdom, check out our article, “What are we thinking with these two Ameraucanas?” Let’s get Copper back to her fabulous self!
What kind of chickens are these?
Curious about your feathered friends? It sounds like you’ve got a delightful mix of black-and-white chickens and some sunny yellow ones! The black-and-white crew, with their distinct white spots, could indeed be the same breed, possibly varying in gender—those white bellies might hint at some charming personality traits. As for your yellow chicks, it’s exciting to see them develop those wing spots! Since you know they’re Easter Eggers, you’re right about the fun mix of traits they might inherit. If you're wondering about their growth stages, you might find the article "Is this molting?" helpful, especially as your chickens mature. Let’s dive into the quirks and joys of your flock together!
Anyone know what breed is my rooster?
Are you puzzled about your rooster's breed? You’re not alone! Our friend /u/Bartekmms is on a quest to uncover the mystery behind their feathered companion. Roosters come in a delightful array of colors and personalities, and identifying the exact breed can feel like playing a game of cluck and seek. If you're curious and want to join the discussion, hop on over to the comments to share your insights or ask questions. And if you’re in the mood for more chicken-related fun, check out “Help me identify my chicken,” where another user is seeking guidance on their feathery friend. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of roosters together—where every feather tells a story!
I got called stupid for assisting stuck chicks out of their shell
In the whimsical world of chick hatching, lending a helping hand to struggling chicks can ignite quite the debate! Recently, I found myself on the receiving end of some harsh words for assisting two chicks who needed a little extra love to break free from their shells. With over 100 chicks hatching each year, I’ve seen my share of feathery drama! This year alone, I welcomed 58 little ones, and when two faced challenges, I stepped in to help. Surprisingly, some folks claimed I was meddling with nature—or worse, “interfering with God’s plan.” But as someone who raises these fluffy friends, I believe we should do our best to give them a fighting chance.
Big girl Odie laid a big ole egg
Big girl Odie has just laid a big ole egg, and while I didn't hear the egg party, I can only imagine it was a cluck-tastic celebration! Odie's achievement reminds us all that life on the farm is full of surprises, from unexpected egg-laying to the delightful antics of our feathered friends. If you’re curious about other chicken adventures, check out our article, “Sometimes chicks don't 'zip' to get out of the egg,” where we dive into the quirks of hatching. Chickens may stir up a mix of joy and apprehension, but there’s always something egg-citing happening in the coop. So let’s raise a toast to Odie and her big accomplishment—here’s to more egg-citing moments ahead!
Help asap
Oh no! It sounds like you’ve got a little chick in distress, and that can definitely ruffle anyone's feathers. When a baby chick isn’t eating or drinking and struggles to get up, it’s a serious concern. It’s possible she could have sustained an injury during transportation or maybe even here at home. The good news is there are steps you can take to help her. First, ensure she has access to fresh water and some chick starter feed, and consider consulting a vet if her condition doesn’t improve. If you're curious about identifying her breed, check out our article "Need help identifying the hen I just bought ^^" for more insights. Remember, you’re not alone in this – we’re all here for our feathered friends!
Hens roosters or one of each?
Are you scratching your head over whether you’ve got hens, roosters, or a delightful mix of both? Fear not! This whimsical inquiry dives into the colorful world of poultry identification. Understanding the differences between these feathered friends can be as tricky as catching a chicken on the run! In this lively discussion, we’ll explore the telltale signs to help you identify your flock members—because knowing whether you're dealing with a clucky hen or a proud rooster can make all the difference in your chicken-keeping adventures. And if you’re curious about rooster leg health, check out our article, “So I just bought this rooster. Any idea what's up with his legs?” to keep your feathered friend in tip-top shape!
So I just bought this rooster. Any idea what's up with his legs?
So you just welcomed a rooster into your flock, and now you're scratching your head over his dry, scaly legs? It sounds like he might be experiencing a little rough patch—common culprits include mites, poor diet, or even a lack of proper hydration. Applying flock shield is a great first step to help soothe those scaly legs, but keep an eye on his overall health and environment too. Is he getting enough nutrients? Is his living space clean and dry? For more insights on rooster care, check out the article titled "Anyone know what breed is my rooster?" submitted by u/Bartekmms. It’s a cluck-tastic way to dive deeper into the quirks of our feathered friends!
How Dare You Not Have Any Snackies!!!!
How Dare You Not Have Any Snackies!!!! is not just a playful proclamation—it's a triple chicken dare that tickles the funny bone and ruffles a few feathers! Submitted by the ever-enthusiastic /u/CrayCrayChickenLady, this lively call-out captures the essence of our quirky love for chickens and the hilarity that ensues when snackies are absent. It’s a wonderful reminder that our feathered friends have big personalities and even bigger snack demands! If you’re in need of some chicken wisdom or just looking for a good laugh, check out "One of my chicks." for more delightful chicken tales. Join the conversation and embrace the fun—your chickens are waiting! Bah-Gawhhhk!
No One To Celebrate With ...
Life can throw some heavy curves, and lately, it feels like I’m in a chicken run of challenges—one mate has succumbed to cancer, while another has simply vanished. But hey, rather than wallow in sadness, I decided to channel that energy into a cluck-tastic project at my stables! I’m diving headfirst into transforming what was once a forgotten space into two fabulous, self-contained chicken runs. It’s a mammoth task, sure, but I'm pumped and ready to tackle it, especially since the weather's been less than egg-citing! If you're feeling the chicken love, check out "Scaley leg mites and ivermectin in the U.K." for some helpful tips. Let’s keep the spirit alive and celebrate our feathered friends together! 🐔🎉
My baby has new friends!
My baby has new friends, and we couldn’t be more egg-cited! Meet Ruby, the big one with a personality as bold as her feathers, and Peaches, the little black beauty who’s full of charm. Together, they’re bringing a whole new level of cluck-tastic joy to our little farm! If you’ve ever wondered about the dynamics of introducing new feathered friends to your flock, you’re not alone. Check out our article, "Has anyone experienced two broody hens fighting/sharing a nest?" to see how Doodle, my white silkie, has navigated her own broody adventures. Join us for more whimsical chicken tales and share your own experiences with your feathered pals!
Psycho Sharons release postponed until Sunday due to inclement weather
Psycho Sharon's much-anticipated release has been postponed until Sunday due to inclement weather, but don't worry—she's making strides! After an extra therapy session to help manage her frustrations, her yard time took a wild turn when a spirited spat with her sister from another mister led to an unexpected food fight. Unfortunately, this ruckus resulted in her temporary return to a newly upgraded holding cell, complete with more sunlight and visibility. As if that wasn’t enough excitement, she voiced her opinions loudly while the warden's kids tried to turn the garage into a dirt bike workshop—let’s just say the warden quickly put a stop to that! Stay tuned for her release tonight at 7:30 PM, where she’ll be sporting LED lights for tracking.
Sometimes chicks don't "zip" to get out of the egg
Hatching chicks is a delightful journey filled with surprises, and sometimes those surprises come in the form of chicks that don’t quite follow the textbook rules. While many believe all chicks should “zip” out of their eggs, my experience hatching hundreds has shown that a few like to break the mold—literally! Occasionally, you’ll find a chick that creates just a small hole instead of a full cap, and while some manage to wiggle out, others may find themselves in a bit of a pickle, needing a helping hand. One fascinating instance involves a chick that’s currently chipping away at its shell in a circular fashion. As long as it hatches healthy, who are we to judge their unique style?
Question about Thai rooster
Welcome to the cluck-tastic world of chicken integration! If you have a new Thai rooster who’s still finding his footing in the coop, you might be wondering how he’ll get along with your lively Leghorns. The good news is that with a bit of patience and understanding, your feathered friends can form a harmonious flock. Newcomers often need time to adjust, especially when they're still developing. To ease the transition, consider keeping a close eye on their interactions and providing plenty of space for your rooster to establish himself. If you're looking for more insights on integrating young birds, check out our article, "Integrating 5 Week Old Pullets into Flock." Happy clucking and may your coop be filled with joy and harmony!
Thelma has breached containment
Uh-oh, folks—Thelma has breached containment! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a feisty chicken decides to go rogue, you’re in for a cluck-tastic tale that’s bound to ruffle some feathers. This cheeky little bird has taken her antics to a whole new level, leaving her caretakers both amused and slightly frazzled. For those who find themselves giggling (or gasping) at Thelma’s escapades, you’re not alone! If you’re curious about chicken personalities, be sure to check out our article, "Breed differences in chicks!" where we dive into the delightful quirks of our feathered friends. Join the conversation and share your own tales of chicken mischief—let’s embrace the chaos together!
Has anyone experienced two broody hens fighting/sharing a nest?
Have you ever found yourself in a clucky conundrum with two broody hens battling for nest supremacy? Doodle, my sweet white silkie, has been fiercely dedicated to her eggs for weeks. But now, enter Milly, the gray (lavender Orpington) with a penchant for commandeering nests! She’s taken over Doodle’s cozy spot while the poor gal just wants a peaceful brooding experience. With three identical nesting boxes nearby, one can’t help but wonder: is this a case of fowl play or an unexpected co-parenting adventure? If you’ve navigated similar poultry predicaments, we’d love to hear how it turned out for you! And if you’re feeling the broody vibes, check out our article on integrating younger pullets for more feathered fun!
Shade for Chickens
Are you ready to keep your Buff Orpington chicks cool and comfy in the California heat? These feathered friends may look adorable, but they can struggle in high temperatures, making shade a must-have in their fenced area. It’s crucial to find a solution that offers robust protection against not just the sun, but also those pesky winds that can whip through your backyard. While a flimsy tarp might not cut it, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that can stand tall against the elements. If you’re also dealing with other chicken care conundrums, check out our article “Scaley leg mites and ivermectin in the U.K.” for some handy tips. Let’s get those little cluckers some shade!
Is this a roo or hen
Is this a roo or a hen? The eternal question that dances through the minds of chicken enthusiasts everywhere! If you’re scratching your head over your two-month-old Sapphire Gem, you’re not alone. Determining the sex of your feathered friend can feel like a game of chicken roulette! With their charming personalities and unique features, these little ones can sometimes keep us guessing. Whether you’re hoping for a clucky hen or a proud rooster, it’s all part of the fun—and occasional frustration—of chicken keeping. For more insights on integrating your baby chicks with the rest of the flock, check out "From Brooder to Coop." Let’s dive into the delightful world of poultry identification together!
Integrating 5 week old pullets into flock
Hey there, chicken tenders! It sounds like you’re in quite the feathered pickle with your 5-week-old pullets and your one-year-old hens. Integrating new chicks can be a cluck-tastically tricky process, especially when the pecking order rears its head—literally! It’s great that you’ve been keeping your chicks safe in their crate, but now that they’re getting too big, it’s time to strategize their introduction. Since the lowest hen has been a bit of a bully, keeping the chicks separate for a while longer might be the best course of action. Remember, patience is key! For some light-hearted insight on flock dynamics, check out “Big girl Odie laid a big ole egg” for some egg-citing inspiration! Let's get those feathered friends integrated safely!
Breed differences are crazy in chicks!
Welcome to Day 4 of our chick journey! 🐣 It's amazing how much personality these little fluffballs already have—each one is a unique character! For instance, our Barred Rocks seem to be on a confidence high, acting like they own the place. Are they just wild, or did we accidentally get a couple of roosters? Meanwhile, our Brahmas are the chillest of the bunch—one is especially docile. Is that typical, or should I be concerned? And let’s not forget our flighty Azures—do they really not like me, or is that just their nature? The Olive Eggers fit my expectations for chick behavior perfectly. Loving this adventure in chicken motherhood! For more insights, check out our article on letting a broody hen raise store-bought chicks.
Help me identify my chicken
Hey, fellow chicken enthusiasts! 🐔 Meet Glum_Guard_5738’s feathered friend—this 14-week-old gal is sporting a funky puff on her head that’s sticking around longer than expected. Initially labeled a blue-breasted brown leghorn, our friend suspects she might actually be a cream crested legbar. If you’ve ever been puzzled by your chicken’s identity during those awkward teen years (trust us, we’ve all been there!), this is your chance to lend a helping hand! If you think you can crack the code on her breed, drop your thoughts below. And while you’re at it, check out “4 week old Seramas” for more chicken chatter and community insights on all things feathered. Let’s solve this chicken mystery together! 😊
Psycho Sharons flashback video
Get ready to cluck with delight as we dive into Psycho Sharon's flashback video! It seems she's always been a bundle of rage and discontent—even at just one year old in 2023! If you missed the earlier upload, don’t worry; it might pop up twice, giving you double the fun. This quirky glimpse into her youthful antics is bound to resonate with anyone who’s ever felt a bit flustered by their feathered friends. And speaking of adorable chaos, check out "Hen and the lil chicks (aren't they cute?)" for more heartwarming chicken moments that’ll surely make you smile. Join the conversation and share your thoughts—after all, we’re all in this whimsical journey together!
Breed differences in chicks!
Welcome to Day 4 of our chick-raising adventure! 🐣 Already, these little feathered friends are showing off their unique personalities, and it’s a wild ride! Our Barred Rocks are strutting around like they own the place—are they always this bold, or did we accidentally score a couple of roosters? Meanwhile, the Brahmas are the chillest of the bunch, but is their docility something to worry about? And then there are the Azures, who seem to have a flair for the dramatic! Are they just naturally flighty, or do they think I’m a giant chicken? With five more chicks joining the flock soon, I’m curious about the best way to introduce them. Join the cluck-tastic discussion and share your insights!
Pullet or Cockerel?
Is it a pullet or a cockerel? This age-old conundrum is front and center for our friend ChaseyPorter, who’s got an 8-week-old Black Copper Marans with a big red comb and waddle that has everyone scratching their heads. Given that this feathered friend is developing these traits much earlier than the rest of the crew, it’s time to dive into the delightful world of chicken gender identification. With one rooster already strutting around in the mix, it’s crucial to figure out if this little one is destined to join the ranks of the crowing crew or keep things a bit quieter. And if you’re wrestling with similar dilemmas, check out our article "Newbie owner - frustrated with food and water jugs" for more cluck-tastic tips!