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.
4 or 40?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken ownership, where four little fluff balls can quickly turn into a clucking desire for 40! If you’ve just welcomed four chicks into your life, you might find yourself daydreaming about expanding your flock. Don’t worry—you’re not alone! The urge to grow your feathered family is a common tale among chicken enthusiasts. It’s a delightful mix of love, chaos, and a sprinkle of madness. If you're curious about the adorable antics of your new chicks or seeking advice on managing the heat for your feathery friends, check out our article, "105° in Phoenix… Can Our Chickens Handle It? 🔥🐔 LIVE." Embrace the joy and hilarity of chicken ownership—because who can resist the charm of these quirky companions?
Sentencing commences as Psycho Sharon resists moving to Solitary, but eventually subdued
Sentencing has officially commenced for Psycho Sharon, who faced the music today after a wild ride in her holding cell. Despite showing signs of calm over four hours, she managed to sneak in a burner phone and upgrade her Rage Hen subscription to include a "Terror Bird" mod. Unfortunately for her, this clever upgrade didn’t help in her escape attempts when it came time for transport. Ultimately, she was sentenced to three days of solitary confinement—an outcome that has left her ruffled and undeniably furious. While she emerged unharmed from the ordeal, her feathers are still ruffled. For those curious about the quirks of chicken behavior, check out "Chicken started honking? What is happening?" for more insights into our feathered friends' antics.
How it started / How it’s going
It’s hard to believe it’s been over a year since my wife and I dove headfirst into the whimsical world of chicken keeping! After countless hours of research and preparation, we thought we were ready for anything. Spoiler alert: we weren’t! From the unexpected joys of feathered friends to the head-scratching confusion of chick sexing, our journey has been a wild ride filled with valuable lessons—and plenty of laughs! For those just starting out or contemplating taking the plunge, I hope our experiences can offer some egg-citing insights. Be sure to check out our post on “Thin Eggs” for tips on shell health, because trust me, no one wants to deal with a cracked surprise!
Thin eggs
Oh no! Thin-shelled eggs can be quite the head-scratcher, especially when they come with extra surprises like calcifications and a goopy egg white. It sounds like your feathered friend might be facing some nutritional challenges, which can affect shell quality and egg consistency. Thin shells could be a sign of calcium deficiency or other dietary imbalances. The thick, blobby white may indicate an issue with internal egg formation as well. To get to the bottom of this, consider examining her diet and ensuring she's getting enough calcium and nutrients. For more insights into unusual egg characteristics, check out “They are so soft” submitted by /u/Ok_Onion2727 for some shared experiences. Remember, we’re all in this cluck-tastic journey together!
Mother's day hen managed to save a struggling chick -- does this happen a lot?
Mother hens are often the unsung heroes of the chicken world, and Runaround Sue’s recent story proves just that! After hatching seven adorable chicks, she turned her attention to the eighth egg, which was struggling to make its grand entrance. With patience and encouragement, Sue pecked at the egg, while her chirpy little ones rallied around, providing moral support in their own peeping way. It’s heartwarming to see a mother hen instinctively nurturing her chicks, even when the odds seem stacked against them. So, is this maternal dedication commonplace? Absolutely! For more on the enchanting behaviors of our feathered friends, check out our article, "Help: One of my chicks eyes keep becoming like this what should I do?" Happy clucking!
Love when my favorite girl comes to me for some lap snuggles 🥰
There's nothing quite like the joy of a lap snuggle from my favorite girl, Henrietta! After a day filled with her signature squawking in the coop—typical behavior for our resident screamer—she finally made her way to me for some much-needed cuddles. I always joke with my kids that she’s just calling out for her mama (that’s me, of course!). When my husband let the flock free-range this afternoon, Henrietta wasted no time finding her way to my lap, interrupting my yard work for a moment of pure love. Once her love cup was filled, she happily rejoined her pals, leaving the screaming behind. If you're curious about other chicken antics, check out "New noise from Rooster" for more cluck-tastic tales! 🥰
Both enjoying The wooden plant holder my grandpa made before he passed :)
Celebrate the charm of cherished memories with the delightful wooden plant holder crafted by u/Mothmans_’s grandpa. This heartfelt piece not only adds a touch of nostalgia to any space but also serves as a reminder of the love and craftsmanship that can be passed down through generations. As we admire the unique beauty of handmade items, we can’t help but think of the stories they tell and the connections they foster. If you’re curious about other feathered friends and their amusing antics, check out “Chicken started honking?” for a deeper dive into the quirky world of our poultry pals. Join the conversation and share your own experiences with us; after all, every piece of furniture has a story waiting to be told!
Chicks-1 week
Can you believe it's already been a week since our little fluff balls arrived? Time flies when you're busy trying to win over your skittish chicks! Sadly, one of them didn't make it, but considering they sat on our front porch for over an hour upon arrival, I can't say I'm too heartbroken. I must admit, I’m a bit nostalgic for our last batch, who were practically my feathered best friends. I know these new ones will warm up eventually, but their current habit of crying and scurrying away when I enter the room is quite the spectacle! Speaking of names, we’re looking for some fun, themed ideas—our last crew was all chicken-based foods!
They are so soft
Have you ever cradled a chicken and been utterly enchanted by its softness? In this delightful post, submitted by u/Ok_Onion2727, we dive into the fluffy world of our feathered friends and discover just how incredibly soft they can be. Chickens may have a reputation for being clucky and chaotic, but their cuddly side often gets overlooked. Whether you're a seasoned chicken whisperer or just dipping your toes into the poultry pond, there's something heartwarming about a gentle snuggle with these quirky creatures. If you're curious about more chicken antics, check out “Chicken started honking?” for a peek into the quirky sounds our birds make when they’re feeling chatty. So, grab your favorite feathered friend and let's celebrate their soft, snuggly charm together!
Sound for chirps! OH MY GOD ITS RAINING FOOD
Get ready for a cluck-tastic surprise! In the whimsical world of chickens, the delightful sounds of chirps can only mean one thing: it’s raining food! Submitted by the ever-enthusiastic u/Mothmans_, this post captures the sheer joy of our feathered friends indulging in tasty treats. If you’ve ever been caught off guard by a sudden feast for your chickens, you know the thrill (and chaos) that comes with it. But don't worry—if you’re curious about how to keep your flock happy in the heat, check out our article, "105° in Phoenix… Can Our Chickens Handle It? 🔥🐔 LIVE." Join the conversation and celebrate the quirky charm of chicken life, where every day is an egg-citing adventure!
Chirping and running around the whole day but finally calms down when being held, she fell asleep in my hand after this hahaha
Chickens can be quite the bundle of energy, flapping and running around like they're auditioning for a feathered marathon! But there's something utterly heartwarming about those moments when they finally settle down, like our friend who shared that her little chick calmed down and dozed off in her hand after a day of chirping chaos. It’s a gentle reminder of the sweet bond we can share with our feathered friends. If you’re looking to dive deeper into the quirky world of chickens, don't miss the delightful story titled "They are so soft," where another chicken enthusiast shares their own fluffy encounter. Who knew chickens could be so charmingly cuddly? Join the conversation and share your own experiences!
Chicken acting weird?? Help 😅
Is your feathered friend acting a little kooky? 🤔 You’re not alone! One of our fellow chicken enthusiasts noticed her hen has been spending way too much time on her nest—so much so that it’s becoming a bit of a head-scratcher. After a day of moving her around, she still insists on returning to her favorite spot behind the pond. The mystery deepens when she skips a day of laying eggs! Is she feeling sad, unwell, or just dreaming of motherhood? 🐥 If you’re wondering about egg binding or what steps to take next, don’t fret! You might find some helpful insights in our article “Look at her crown. She is meant to be the queen of chicks.” Let’s untangle this chicken conundrum together!
Hes getting bigger, but Arnie still needs his cuddles
Arnie may be growing bigger every day, but one thing remains clear: he still craves those precious cuddle sessions! This delightful journey into the life of a growing chick showcases the tender bond that can blossom between humans and their feathered friends. As Arnie navigates his way through the ups and downs of chickhood, his need for affection reminds us that no matter how big they get, our poultry pals often still rely on those comforting snuggles. For those eager to learn more about the challenges of caring for young chicks, don’t miss our article "Injured Newborn Chick," where fellow chicken enthusiasts share their experiences and advice. Join the cluck-tastic conversation and celebrate the joys (and occasional chaos) of chicken parenting!
Psycho Sharon finally apprehended and being held without bail.
Meet Psycho Sharon, formerly known as Olga, the green olive Egger with a wild spirit and a penchant for dramatic returns! This feathered diva has always been an egg-laying champion, but after embarking on a 13-day adventure to pursue her dreams of motherhood in the woods, she finally flew back home—arriving with all the flair of a Spartan warrior! While the goats were left baffled and the other hens rolled their eyes, I found myself tangled in thorny vines trying to track her down. Now, she’s in solitary confinement, and I’m left pondering a few things: Is three days enough? Will she forget about her secret nest? And can chickens experience "refeeding syndrome"? Any cluck-tastic advice would be appreciated!
Hen or rooster? 11 week old Delaware
Are you scratching your head over whether your 11-week-old Delaware is a hen or a rooster? You’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves in a clucking conundrum when it comes to identifying their feathered friends. Delawares are known for their charming personalities and striking appearance, but distinguishing the boys from the girls can feel like a game of fowl hide-and-seek. In this discussion, we’ll dive into the telltale signs that can help you determine your chick's gender. Plus, if you're curious about other peculiarities in the world of chickens, check out our article "Hen or roo? 5 week Orpington," where we explore the fascinating traits of Orpingtons. Join the fun and let’s solve this poultry puzzle together!
Big eye/swollen head going on...
Hey there, feathered friends enthusiasts! We’ve got a bit of a cluck-tastrophe on our hands with one of our 9-week-old hens. Our friend /u/kalash_kowboi has shared some concerning photos of a swollen head and bulging eye. Thankfully, the little lady seems to be acting normal and her feathers are still laying fine. But what could be the cause? Is it an infection, conjunctivitis, or something else entirely? It’s wise to separate her from the flock until we have more answers. If you’ve encountered similar issues with your chicks, your insights would be egg-citingly appreciated! For more context, be sure to check out our article "Help: One of my chicks' eyes keeps becoming like this, what should I do?" for additional tips and shared experiences.
Injured Newborn Chick
Oh no! It sounds like you’ve had quite the cluck-tastic rollercoaster with your newborn chick. First of all, your attachment to that little feathered friend is completely understandable—motherly instincts are strong, especially when it comes to our adorable chicks! It’s heart-wrenching to see them in distress, and your panic is totally valid. The good news is that chicks are surprisingly resilient, but they do need some extra love and care after an incident like this. Keep an eye on that little one and ensure it’s warm and dry. If you're seeking more insights, check out our related article, "Mother's day hen managed to save a struggling chick -- does this happen a lot?" for some uplifting stories and tips. Hang in there!
Daytime chicken run ideas?
Are you ready to embark on a cluck-tastic adventure by building a chicken run for your feathered ladies? We understand the challenge of keeping chickens safe while allowing your new pup to enjoy the yard. It sounds like you have a solid plan with star pickets and chicken wire, but those escape artists can be tricky! Since your girls might prefer to stay put if they can see the dog, a well-designed run could be the perfect solution. And if you're curious about chicken behavior, check out our article “Chicken acting weird?? Help 😅” for insights on their quirky antics. Let’s create a safe space where everyone can coexist—chickens, dogs, and humans alike! Happy building!
105° in Phoenix… Can Our Chickens Handle It? 🔥🐔 LIVE
As the thermometer in Phoenix hits a sizzling 105°F, you might be wondering—can our feathered friends handle the heat? Chickens are surprisingly resilient, but even the toughest of them can feel the effects of extreme temperatures. Join us for a LIVE discussion where we’ll dive into tips and tricks to keep your flock cool and clucking happily, no matter how high the mercury rises! We’ll share insights on hydration, shade solutions, and the importance of providing a stress-free environment. Plus, if you’re curious about the fun side of chicken care, check out our article, "Chickens Enjoy Eating Watermelon," for a refreshing twist on keeping your birds cool. Let’s make this summer a cluck-tastic one together!
URGENT help with sick bird
Oh no, it sounds like one of your feathered friends is having a tough time! With your little chick being just 9-10 weeks old and showing signs of distress, it’s understandable to feel anxious. You’re already doing a cluck-tastic job by getting her to the vet and providing supportive care. With the green diarrhea and her lethargy, it’s crucial to monitor her closely, especially considering the recent introduction of new chicks. Your proactive quarantine measures are spot on! Keep her cozy, hydrated, and nourished with that ACV and electrolyte mix. It might also be worth checking out "Chicken acting weird?? Help 😅" for more insights on odd behaviors in chickens. Hang in there—your love and care make all the difference!
Hen or roo? 5 week Orpington
Is it a hen or a roo? If you're pondering the identity of your 5-week-old Orpington, you're not alone! This little one is smaller than its same-aged pals, sporting a shorter tail and a noticeably larger comb. These traits can be puzzling, especially for those of us who might be “cluck-ing out” when it comes to chicken identification. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or someone who simply enjoys the feathered antics of these quirky friends, understanding the nuances can be both amusing and informative. If you're navigating similar questions about your flock, check out our article, "Good or bad," where we discuss the suitability of chili peppers for your chickens. Join the conversation and share your thoughts!
Brooder plate height for day olds?
Hey there, chicken enthusiasts! If you’re scratching your head over brooder plate height for your adorable 9-day-old chicks, you’re not alone—this is a common cluck-up! The ideal height for your brooder plate should allow your little feathered friends to snuggle up comfortably while also letting them wander freely without feeling too hot or too cold. A good rule of thumb is to start the plate around 2-3 inches off the bedding and adjust as they grow and learn to regulate their own body temperature. If you’re still feeling a bit lost, check out our article "He’s getting bigger, but Arnie still needs his cuddles" for some heartwarming tips on caring for growing chicks. Your fluffy companions are counting on you!
Roost in Peace
Today, we gather to remember a truly cluck-tastic soul—a spirited Americana hen who left us too soon due to an impacted crop. At just over a year old, she often wore a hilariously disgruntled expression, as if she was perpetually annoyed with the world around her. Whether laying her eggs in my flower pot or strutting around the yard, she brought joy and laughter to our lives. Her feisty personality will be dearly missed, reminding us that even the most vibrant feathered friends can face challenges. For those navigating their own chicken adventures, be sure to check out our article, “Hatching eggs with mother hen,” for some egg-citing tips on nurturing your own flock. Rest in peace, dear Americana—you were truly one of a kind.
New noise from Rooster
It sounds like your rooster is trying to communicate something cluck-tastic! Roosters are known for their vocal antics, and new noises can sometimes leave us scratching our heads. If you noticed this sound appearing after using the scooper, it could be your feathered friend expressing curiosity or a bit of annoyance—who knows! Chickens can be quirky creatures, often reacting to changes in their environment. If you’re curious about the many personalities of your flock, check out the article “Does anyone know the breed of this chicken? I am absolutely in love with her 🫶🏻” for a deeper dive into chicken behaviors. Remember, every noise could be a new chapter in your rooster’s story! Keep those ears perked and enjoy the delightful chaos!