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.
Hen or roo?
Are you team hen or roo? 🐔 We’ve got a delightful mix of feathered friends from an auction haul, and it’s time to put our chicken-guessing hats on! We have a golden Buff Orpington—my gut says roo, but the breeder leans hen. Then there’s the sweet black silkie, a real head-scratcher since they’re notoriously tricky to sex. Up front, meet the silver-laced Wyandotte; I’m placing my bets on hen, while the breeder has a different view. And don’t forget the barred rock in the back—my instinct says roo due to that comb, but the breeder swears it’s a hen based on its wiggly wattle. What do you think? Let’s cluck about it! Check out "I’m new to chickens" for more insights!
Psycho Sharon granted supervised yard time for good behavior.
Psycho Sharon, affectionately known as Sharon Bitchardson Johnson, was granted a much-anticipated two hours of supervised yard time today in the covered septagon by the pool. After two weeks of dedicated therapy, Sharon showcased her progress—albeit with a dash of chicken drama. Upon seeing grass for the first time in what felt like an eternity, she dove into a wild dust bath, clucking with joy. However, her bliss was briefly interrupted by a rogue hawk gang, notorious for their Friday escapades. With her sunshade securely in place to deter escape, Sharon continued her dusting, appearing quite content and "normal." If this good behavior persists, she might be free tomorrow—though equipped with LED lighted leg bands for extra safety.
URGENT
Oh no! It sounds like you're in a bit of a chicken pickle with one of your feathered friends. Finding a chick just lying around can be quite alarming, especially when they're usually full of life and energy at six weeks old. It’s great that you’re reaching out for help—sometimes, the chicken community can provide the best advice when it comes to these clucky situations! You mentioned the possibility of wry neck, which can be concerning, especially if you observe unusual symptoms like a pulsing pupil. If you’re looking for more insights, you might find our article “Is this a rooster” helpful as it discusses common issues with young chickens. Let’s see if we can get your chick back on its feet!
Free range tips
Are you pondering whether to let your feathered friends roam free outside their pen during the day? You’re not alone! The great free-range debate has chicken enthusiasts clucking with excitement (and a little bit of worry). It’s a delightful idea to let your chickens stretch their legs and enjoy a bit of sunshine, but it comes with its own set of questions. Will they return home at night? Are predators lurking to spoil the fun? And what if they decide to play hide-and-seek? If you’re feeling a bit chicken about the whole thing, you’re in the right place! For more insights on chicken safety and behavior, check out “HELP! Is there any chance?” where fellow enthusiasts share their experiences.
Stray chicken
Hello, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like the universe has plopped a delightful feathered friend right into your lap—meet Hennifer Clawerence! How egg-citing! Identifying her breed and determining whether she’s ready to lay eggs can be a bit of a cluck-tastic adventure, especially with just a few pictures. Don’t worry; we’re here to help you give her the best care possible. Since you’re on a mission to track down her original owners, it’s worth checking out your local chicken community. Meanwhile, you might find our article "Please Help Me ID This Chick!" helpful for tips on breed identification. With the right feed and care, Hennifer will be the star of your backyard in no time!
We rescued 2 chickens, this is what one looks like. Is there anything we need to do to help it get its feathers back?
Welcome to the cluck-tastic world of chicken rescue! Today, we’re shining a spotlight on a brave little feathered friend who’s on the mend after facing some feather-related challenges. If you've recently welcomed two chickens into your life, you might be wondering how to help one of them regain its glorious plumage. Fear not! We’re here to explore tips and tricks to ensure your chicken feels comfortable and supported during this time. Whether it’s providing a cozy space or the right nutrition, every little bit helps! For more insights, check out our article “Finally they are in their run,” where fellow chicken enthusiasts share their experiences in transitioning chicks to their new digs. Let’s dive in and give our feathered friends the care they deserve!
Im stuck if I got a pair of lavender brahma roos and pair of mottled brahma hens hoping im wrong
Oh, the delightful conundrum of chicken gender! If you find yourself in a bit of a pickle with a pair of lavender Brahma roosters and a couple of mottled Brahma hens, fret not—you're certainly not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts, like our friend Sparky1239730, have faced similar feathered dilemmas, hoping for a harmonious flock. It’s a classic case of “I hope I’m wrong!” that many can relate to. If you're in need of support or advice, check out our article “HELP! Is there any chance?” which dives into the heart-wrenching tales of chicken mishaps and their resolutions. Let’s navigate this cluck-tastic journey together, one feathered friend at a time!
Sweet gerts
Meet Sweet Gerts, the snuggle chicken of our dreams! Out of nearly 15 feathered friends, she stands out as the sweetest little angel. With a heart so pure, she often dashes away from the flock—bless her heart! It’s like watching a fluffy ball of joy run in the opposite direction, and it's hilarious to see. Gerts embodies the quirky charm that makes chickens so endearing, reminding us that each one has its own personality. If you're curious about the delightful adventures of chickens like Gerts, check out our article “TJ on an adventure🫶🏻” to see how these feathered friends can bring joy and laughter into our lives. Embrace the whimsy of chicken ownership—it's egg-citing!
Roost High Mama Roo
Today, my heart aches as I share the bittersweet farewell to Mama Roo, my first hen and the spark that ignited my passion for chickens. Rescued from the streets in June 2024, she brought nearly two years of joy, lessons, and love. Despite her struggles with sour crop and reproductive issues, she remained my alpha hen, guiding our flock with grace. This morning, as I held her close, I whispered a prayer for her peace, and within moments, she left this world. It feels surreal, and I’m left with a million pieces of a broken heart. I take solace in knowing she’s now in chicken heaven, feasting on all the corn and worms she desires.
Arizona chicken lovers, share your setup?
Hey Arizona chicken lovers! If you’re contemplating adding some cluck-tastic companions to your menagerie, you’re in for a fun adventure! Setting up a chicken coop and run can be a delightful project, especially in your south-facing yard with plenty of shade. The idea of fastening a run to your metal laundry line sounds creative, and I can already picture those feathered friends enjoying their space near the small tree! If you're seeking inspiration, check out the article "Bought 2 chicks," where a newbie is navigating the world of chicken care. As a zoologist with a passion for all things critter-related, your insights and experiences will surely enrich our chicken-loving community.
HELP!! I'm a mail carrier with two boxes of baby chick's with no home!
HELP!! A mail carrier in Cleveland, Ohio, found himself in a feathery pickle when two boxes of baby chicks went unclaimed by their new homes. After 24 hours of waiting for signatures, he delivered one box containing parakeets — surprise! The second box returned to the post office, where the tiny turkeys were kept cozy with a space heater. Thankfully, they are now safe at home, enjoying their new digs while awaiting a permanent residence. With turkey crumbles and fresh water at the ready, this duo is doing their best to care for their unexpected guests. If you ever wonder about chicken quirks, check out our article on “Chicken makes weird movements with neck. And is not breathing normal.
New chick!!!
Exciting news from the coop! I lifted up my girl Hashbrown to check on her eggs—she wasn’t supposed to be on lockdown just yet—and to my surprise, a little chick popped out to say, “Hello, world!” Welcome to the family, little one! While we still have a couple of days until the rest of the eggs are due to hatch, I’m eagerly watching and hoping for more feathery friends. This is my first time letting Hashbrown incubate, so I’d love to hear any tips from fellow chicken enthusiasts. If you're looking for more coop adventures, check out "Rose and Mama Serama" for some delightful chicken tales! Let’s cluck together on this egg-citing journey!
Chicken makes weird movements with neck. And is not breathing normal.
Is your feathered friend acting a bit peculiar with those neck movements and struggling to breathe normally? It sounds like you’re dealing with a respiratory mystery that’s got everyone scratching their heads. With gurgling sounds and occasional coughs, it’s understandable to feel concerned, especially after a course of amoxicillin and now doxycycline. While it’s great to hear that your chicken has gained weight and improved in other areas, the question remains: could this be a case of gapeworms? It's puzzling, especially since they’re not coughing up mucus or blood. If you’re looking for more insights into chicken health, check out our article "Sick Hen?" for tips on how to handle similar situations. Remember, we’re all in this together, so let’s figure it out!
What do you guys think? Is this chick a peewee or peeweiner? (We named them peewee :)
What do you guys think? Is this chick a peewee or a peeweiner? We’ve affectionately named them Peewee, and we can’t wait to hear your thoughts! Chickens have a way of capturing our hearts (and sometimes our sanity), and Peewee is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who finds themselves chickening out at the sight of these feathered friends, we invite you to join the conversation. If you’re curious about other quirky chicken stories, check out our article “I’ve been calling her peenie weenie so much she now thinks it’s her name 😭 she’s named Peewee (sound)” — it’s a delightful read that’s sure to make you chuckle! Let’s dive into Peewee’s destiny together!
My first fairy egg! 🥹 Any ideas on what to do with it?
Oh, the excitement of discovering your very first fairy egg! 🥹 This tiny treasure is not just adorable; it's a delightful surprise that can inspire all sorts of creative ideas. Whether you're considering it for a special recipe, a whimsical decoration, or even a quirky addition to your chicken coop, the possibilities are egg-citing! If you’re unsure what to do with it, why not check out our article on "Chicken hatching"? It might just give you some insights into the magical journey of eggs and hatching. Remember, every little egg tells a story, and this one is sure to spark joy and curiosity. So, what will you do with your feathered friend’s tiny masterpiece? Let the cluck-tastic brainstorming begin!
🐔 98° in Phoenix… POOL DAY for the Chickens! 😎💦
🐔 It’s a sizzling 98° in Phoenix, and you know what that means—it’s time for a pool day with our feathered friends! 😎💦 Chickens may not be the best swimmers, but they sure know how to enjoy a splash on a hot day. Whether they’re wading in shallow waters or simply cooling off in the shade, these quirky creatures bring a whole new meaning to “chillin’ with the flock.” If you’re wondering how to keep your chickens cool or if they’re acting a bit strange in the heat, check out our article “Help: One of my chicks' eyes keeps becoming like this; what should I do?” for some helpful tips! Let’s dive into summer fun with our cluck-tastic companions!
How to "phase out" of chicken ownership?
Phasing out of chicken ownership after 30 years can feel like a cluck-tastic conundrum, especially with your beloved aging flock! As you ponder the future, you’re faced with heart-tugging questions: Should you let your hens live out their golden years with you, or is it time to find them new homes? The good news is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. You might consider a gradual approach, allowing your hens to enjoy their remaining days while you assess your comfort level with fewer birds. If you’re curious about the complexities of chicken care, check out “HELP!! I'm a mail carrier with two boxes of baby chicks with no home!” for some light-hearted insight. Embrace this transition with humor and heart—you've earned it!
Had my first bear attack last night.
Last night was a wild ride for me and my feathered friends! Around 9 PM, my trusty Pyrenees, Miss Pearl, sounded the alarm about an intruder. With heart racing, I grabbed my spotlight to check the coop, only to find it flipped on its side and the door ripped off like a paper towel. Talk about a cluck-tastrophe! Armed with my rifle, I fired off a few shots, hoping to scare away the beast. To my relief, a bear dashed into the woods, and not a single one of my girls was lost—thank goodness for that! Now, I’m curious: what do you fine folks do to ward off predators? I’m thinking of hanging some pots and pans around the enclosure for extra noise. Any tips?
Two Chickens One Nesting Box
Why settle for just one cozy nesting box when two chickens can share the fun? In the delightful world of our feathered friends, the idea of snuggling into a single nesting box can spark a little clucking chaos and a lot of charm! Join us as we explore the quirks of chicken camaraderie, where the warmth of shared space creates a comical yet heartwarming scene. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just a curious chicken enthusiast, you'll find joy in the antics of these clever cluckers. Plus, don't miss our related article, "Peek-a-boo," where we catch a sneak peek of a charming chick face on camera. Let’s dive into the whimsical world of chickens and their nesting shenanigans!
Snug some chicks under Margootje
Meet Margootje, the nurturing mama hen of our quirky flock! After moving in with her sister Henna a year ago, these feathered friends quickly became inseparable, with Margootje taking on the role of caretaker. When she went broody, we decided to surprise her for Mother's Day with two tiny chicks—Peewee and her little sibling. We snugged them under Margootje in the middle of the night, and her joy was palpable! As she embraced her new responsibilities, we made sure to supervise interactions with the other hens, especially Henna, who initially felt left out. Now, our delightful quartet is living their best lives, soaking up the joys of spring. Curious about the latest antics? Check out “What do you guys think?
What type of chicken is this?
What a cluck-tastic surprise! A Guinea hen has just waltzed into your yard, and it seems to have taken a liking to your chickens! How wild is that? You might be scratching your head, wondering where this feathered friend popped up from—especially since Guinea fowl aren’t exactly the most common sight in New England. Perhaps it’s a wandering soul from a nearby farm, or maybe it just decided your yard looked like a fun place to hang out. Your chickens might be playing it cool, but it sounds like this unexpected guest could be stirring up a bit of karma for any past fowl critiques! If you’re curious about Guinea fowl age, check out our article "Rough estimate on age?" for some insights!
Chicken nail loss
Chickens are truly our feathered friends, but sometimes they face unexpected challenges—like nail loss! If you've noticed your clucky companion missing a nail or two, don’t panic. This can happen for various reasons, from rough play with their pals to pesky environmental factors. Understanding the cause is essential to ensuring your chicken’s well-being and keeping those feet healthy. In this article, submitted by the ever-curious u/Financial-Depth-2209, we’ll dive into the potential reasons behind chicken nail loss, how to treat it, and when to seek help. And if you’re also wondering about your chicks’ grit needs, check out our article on whether they can just get grit from dirt. Let's keep those little feet happy and healthy!
Can my chicks just get grit from dirt or do I really need to buy it
Are your little chicks having a blast pecking at tiny rocks in their dust bath? It sounds like they’re on the right track! But the big question is whether dirt and wood ash are enough grit for those growing gizzards, or if chick grit is a must-have expense. While your two-week-old feathered friends might enjoy their makeshift grit buffet, it’s essential to know if they’re truly getting what they need for digestion. As you ponder whether to splurge on commercial grit, consider that a little knowledge can go a long way in chick care. If you're curious about other chicken quirks, check out the article about the “bald spot” issue, where we dive into common concerns that other chicken owners face!
Protesters and Supporters gather near Psycho Sharons holding cell
In a cluck-tastic display of sisterly solidarity, protesters and supporters gathered near Psycho Sharon’s holding cell, marking the second day of silence from her egg-laying sisters. Normally a carefree crew demanding treats, today they assembled outside the pool area with a mission: to express their discontent over Sharon’s recent antics. With darting glances and occasional squawking outbursts, the feathered friends seemed unified in their disdain—except for that one chicken who was clearly daydreaming. The matriarch, Jackie, voiced her frustrations, threatening a feathery showdown upon Sharon’s release. Meanwhile, Psycho Sharon herself remained unfazed, tossing her food container with prehistoric squawks. For more on the emotional rollercoaster of chicken life, check out our article, "🐔 98° in Phoenix… POOL DAY for the Chickens! 😎💦."