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.
Chickens Enjoy Eating Watermelon
Chickens and watermelon—what a cluck-tastic combination! These feathered friends absolutely adore munching on juicy slices of this summer fruit, making it a delightful treat for them (and a fun way to beat the heat)! Watermelon is not only hydrating but also packed with vitamins, ensuring your chickens stay happy and healthy. Plus, watching them peck at the vibrant pink flesh is pure entertainment—it's like a mini chicken carnival! If you're curious about how our flock is handling the sweltering heat, check out our article, "107° IN PHOENIX! 🥵 How Our Chickens Are Surviving The Extreme Heat LIVE." Dive in and discover more ways to keep your chicks cool and clucking with joy!
4 days since removal from severe pecking. What resilient little animals!
Meet Roz, the resilient little chicken who’s stealing hearts and wrapping us around her talon! Just four days ago, she was the victim of some serious pecking, but now she’s bouncing back with a personality that’s truly shining. Although I’ve never considered myself a “chicken person,” Roz’s charm is undeniable. She’s become a huge fan of grapes, blueberries, and cucumbers, and she even hopped into my lap—talk about a cluck-tastic bonding moment! With plenty of love, interaction, and a poultry-specific antimicrobial spray, Roz is healing beautifully. As we prepare to reintroduce her to her flock, I’m curious about any tips to help her on this journey. For more chicken conundrums, check out our article, "Rooster or Hen?" to see what fellow chicken enthusiasts are discussing!

My little chicky 🫶🏼
Today, we’re sending our love and support to a fellow chicken enthusiast who recently faced a heart-wrenching loss. My sweet baby Velma has crossed over to chicken heaven, leaving behind a void that’s hard to fill. It’s never easy to say goodbye to our feathered friends, who bring us so much joy and laughter. In memory of Velma, we invite you to celebrate her quirky spirit by sharing some delightful photos that capture her silliness and charm. Thank you for allowing this moment of remembrance. If you’re looking for more heartwarming stories like this, check out “I’ll never forget you Tiny Tina,” where another loving tribute reminds us of the bonds we share with our beloved birds. 🐔💖

Rooster or Hen?
Are you scratching your head over whether your 11-week “pullet” might actually be a rooster? You’re not alone! Many chicken keepers find themselves in the clucking conundrum of identifying their feathered friends’ true identities. From size to behavior, there are plenty of signs that could tip you off. In this case, the suspected rooster stands taller, has thicker legs, and is developing a deeper call, all while outgrowing its Plymouth Rock peers. If you’re leaning toward rooster vibes, you're not without reason! Join the conversation and see what the community thinks about your feathery friend. And if you're curious about other chicken mysteries, check out our article, "What do we think this chicken is?!?" for more cluck-tastic insights!

Please help giving a guess at gender
Curious about the gender of your feathered friend? You’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves scratching their heads when it comes to identifying the boys from the girls. Whether you’ve rescued a chicken and are eager to know if you’ve got a clucking hen or a crowing rooster, we’re here to help! In this thread, submitted by u/stephtpz, you can share your guesses and observations while connecting with fellow chicken lovers. And if you’re venturing into the world of chicken keeping, check out our article "Best coop size for 4-6 hens? Also any tricks for raising chicks" for tips and tricks to get your coop ready for your new feathered friends. Let’s crack the code together and celebrate our quirky love for chickens!

What do we think this chicken is?!?
What do we think this chicken is?!? Meet one of our delightful “silkies” who has been keeping us on our toes! After a month of surprises, this little feathered friend is now flaunting rust-colored feathers and possibly sporting a Mohawk—could this be a cockerel in the making? With five toes, dark skin, and furry legs, we’re guessing this charming creature is a silkie mix, but we’d love to hear your thoughts! If you're curious about chicken identification tales, check out “TS wrongly id’ed chicken,” where another chicken enthusiast shares their puzzling experiences. Join us in the fun and let’s unravel the mystery of our feathered companions together!

Please help I don’t know what’s wrong with my rooster!
Oh no, it sounds like your rooster is in a bit of a pickle! That bulge and pus around his eye could be a sign of a few pesky issues, like an eye infection or a respiratory problem, and it’s great that you’ve already taken the step to clean it up. Roosters can be quite the characters, and their quirky traits often make us worry even more when something seems off. Don't chicken out on getting help! We recommend reaching out to a vet who specializes in poultry for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In the meantime, for more insights on caring for your feathered friends, check out "My little chicky 🫶🏼" for a heartfelt look at chicken companionship and health.

Another smol chicken hotdog
Get ready for another cluck-tastic tale with “Another Smol Chicken Hotdog,” submitted by the ever-creative /u/milkedbarista! This delightful piece is sure to tickle your funny bone and warm your heart, perfect for anyone who loves a good laugh about our feathered friends. Chickens can be quirky little characters, and this story captures their playful spirit in a way that resonates with both seasoned chicken lovers and those who might still be chickening out. If you’re looking for more heartwarming chicken experiences, don’t miss “Please help I don’t know what’s wrong with my rooster!” for a dose of empathy and community support. Dive into the fun and join the conversation today! [link] [comments]

do these look like hens or roos?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken keeping! As a first-time chicken mom with eight feathered friends, you’re already in for a cluck-tastic adventure! You've spotted one of your crew crowing, which has probably left you scratching your head and wondering—do you have roos or hens? Those two suspects may be giving you the side-eye, and the other six seem blissfully hen-like with their smaller, less colorful combs. Fear not! Our community is here to help you figure it out. Check out the related article “Help figuring out what this is on my chicken” for more insights into chicken health and behavior while you navigate this exciting journey. Let’s dive into the fun and find out who’s who in your flock!

Update on Empire!
Hey, feathered friends! I have a cluck-tastic update on Empire for those who followed her journey. After some worrying signs—like lethargy, heavy breathing, and that squishy crop—she’s made a full recovery! The first couple of days post-update showed noticeable improvement, and now she’s back to her fabulous self, strutting around like the queen she is. Her treatment involved a delightful mix of electrolytes, vitamins, and frozen fruit, all served with a side of love and care. A huge thank you to everyone who sent their well wishes! And just to clarify for those suggesting culling, I’m down to just three hens after a recent dog attack, so nurturing my girls back to health is my top priority. Want to dive deeper?

help figuring out what this is on my chicken
Uh-oh! It sounds like your feathered friend might have developed a little something extra—perhaps a mole or bump that’s caught your eye. While it’s great to hear she’s not in pain when you touch it, it’s always best to stay on the safe side when it comes to our beloved chickens. This could be anything from a harmless growth to something that deserves a closer look. If you’re feeling a bit clucky about it, consulting a vet might be a good idea. And speaking of chicken care, you might find our article “Should I cull, or is there something I can do” helpful for broader insights on chicken health. Let's make sure your hen stays happy and healthy!
107° IN PHOENIX! 🥵 How Our Chickens Are Surviving The Extreme Heat LIVE
It’s a sizzling 107° in Phoenix, and our feathered friends are feeling the heat! 🥵 Join us as we dive into how our chickens are not just surviving but thriving in this extreme weather. From creative cooling techniques to their quirky behaviors in the sun, we’ll share the cluck-tastic ways our flock is handling the sweltering temperatures. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just chicken-curious, this live update promises to entertain and inform. Plus, if you're considering starting your own flock, check out our article on the best breed for maximum egg production — it’s egg-citing information you won’t want to miss! Stay tuned for all the fun and fowl play as we explore this hot topic together!

What does this noise mean?
Is your rooster making a noise that sounds like a quirky R2D2 impression? You’re not alone! Many chicken keepers find themselves puzzled by their feathered friends' unique vocalizations. This particular sound often emerges when your rooster is simply hanging out in the run, leading to questions about its meaning. Is it a sign of contentment, boredom, or perhaps a call for attention? Understanding chicken chatter can be a delightful yet perplexing part of chicken ownership. If you’re curious about the nuances of your rooster's behavior, you might also enjoy our article, "Rooster or Hen?", where we dive into the signs that can help you determine the gender of your poultry pals. Let's explore the cluck-tastic world of rooster sounds together!

Are Brahmas actually hard to sex?
Are Brahmas actually hard to sex? If you've ever found yourself scratching your head over a week-old chick with big wings and little tail feathers, you're not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts wonder why it seems to take longer to determine the gender of Brahmas compared to other breeds. In this delightful conundrum, one brave little chick stands out with stubby wings and no tail, boldly bonding with his human—could he really be a hen? It’s a common question, and you’re not the only one trying to decode these feathered mysteries. For further insights, check out our article "Rooster or Hen?" to dive deeper into the signs that could help you tell your flock apart!

TS wrongly id’ed chicken
Have you ever found yourself questioning your chicken’s identity? You're not alone! One of our community members, u/gcd120904, recently shared their puzzling experience with a “Cinnamon Queen pullet” from Tractor Supply that started crowing—definitely not the behavior you’d expect from a lady! With their initial confidence in its gender based on the sex-linked traits, they're left wondering if a mischievous Rhode Island Red cockerel slipped in by accident or if it’s a different breed altogether. It’s a classic case of chicken confusion! If you're also scratching your head over your feathered friends, check out our article "Friend or Foe?" for more insights into the quirky personalities of roosters. Let's dive into this cluck-tastic mystery together!

Playing?
Ah, the delightful chaos of farm life! It sounds like your dog has found a new set of feathered friends to frolic with, but the big question is: are the chickens clucking in delight or feeling a bit stressed? Chickens can have a playful side, especially if your rooster is the one instigating the fun! Observing their body language is key. Look for signs like puffing up or running away, which might indicate discomfort. If they seem to be engaging back, that’s a good sign! For more insights into the dynamics of your flock, you might find our article "Best friends :)" helpful. Let’s make sure both your pup and your chickens are having a cluck-tastic time together!

Why does my hen look like a rooster
Ever find yourself scratching your head (or perhaps your feathers) over a hen that’s strutting around like she owns the place? You’re not alone! One curious chicken keeper, u/Savings_Bowl3117, has spotted this clucking conundrum firsthand—she’s seen her hen lay an egg, yet this feathery friend looks more like a rooster! It’s a classic case of “what’s going on here?” that many of us can relate to. Could this hen be the next feathered superstar? If you’re pondering similar poultry puzzles, you might also enjoy our article on scissor beak, which addresses the quirks of chicken care. Dive in, and let’s celebrate the delightful oddities of our feathered friends together!

Fowl pox or scab from getting in a fight?
Concerned about your hen’s face and wondering if it’s just a scab from a scuffle or something more serious like fowl pox? You’re not alone! Many chicken keepers have faced this cluck-tastrophe, and it’s essential to differentiate between the two to ensure your feathered friend gets the right care. Fowl pox can be a pesky virus, while scabs from fights often heal without a hitch. Observing other symptoms will help you get to the bottom of this mystery. For more insights on chicken health, check out our article "TS wrongly id’ed chicken," where we discuss common misconceptions and care tips. Let’s dive into the world of chicken wellness together and keep our flocks happy and healthy!

It’s my first post ever on Reddit :) I just wanna share my hens with you :)
Hey fellow Redditors! 🎉 I’m beyond excited to share my very first post with you all—let’s talk about my cluck-tastic hens! 🐔💕 From their quirky personalities to their egg-citing antics, my feathered friends bring endless joy (and a little chaos) to my life. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just someone who finds them amusing (or maybe a tad intimidating), I can’t wait to connect and swap stories! If you’re curious about the ups and downs of chicken ownership, be sure to check out “I’ll never forget you, Tiny Tina,” where we celebrate the beautiful lives of our beloved birds. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of chickens together! 🐣✨

I’ll never forget you Tiny Tina, too beautiful for this world. I will see you when it’s my time to leave and I’ll miss you every day until then. 03/17/2026 - 05/05/2026 🐦⬛ 🪽
In a heartfelt tribute, one user reflects on the cherished memories of Tiny Tina, a beautiful soul too precious for this world. Remembering her from March 17, 2026, until May 5, 2026, the sentiment resonates deeply with anyone who has ever loved a feathered friend. The bond between humans and their chickens can be both profound and bittersweet, as we navigate the complexities of love and loss in the backyard coop. If you’ve ever felt the weight of such emotions, you might find solace in another touching story about a Buff Orpington’s broody journey in “She did it! She worked so hard!” Together, these tales remind us of the joy and heartache that come with our beloved fowl companions.
What's this
What’s this—my chicken laid this today? If you're scratching your head over an unusual egg or just want to share your cluck-tastic surprise, you’re not alone! Chickens can be quirky little creatures, and their egg-laying adventures often come with a side of intrigue. Whether it’s a peculiar shape, size, or color, we’re here to help decode the mystery of your feathered friend’s latest creation. Plus, if you’re curious about hen sounds, check out our article, "Is she crowing or is something wrong???" for insights into your hen's vocalizations. Join the conversation, share your observations, and let’s embrace the delightful chaos of chicken parenting together! What’s your egg-citing find today?

Best coop size for 4-6 hens? Also any tricks for raising chick's
Welcome to the whimsical world of chickens, where your feathered friends can bring both joy and a dash of chaos! If you're new to raising chickens, you might be wondering about the best coop size for 4-6 hens. A cozy space of 24-36 square feet will keep them happy and healthy! As you prepare for your new rescue, consider finding some chicken pals to help ease her transition—socializing is key! Plus, if you’ve noticed pesky chicken lice, don't fret! Treating them is essential to ensure your flock thrives. For more insights on chicken behavior, check out our article, "What does this noise mean?" to decode your rooster's quirky sounds. Let’s embark on this cluck-tastic adventure together!

Making changes to their coop
Are you ready to transform your chicken coop into a cluck-tastic haven? We’re always on the lookout for egg-citing ways to make our feathered friends feel at home in a more natural space. Whether it’s adding cozy nooks for dust baths, planting chicken-friendly greenery, or creating fun perches, the possibilities are as vast as a chicken’s imagination! We’d love to hear about the creative changes you’ve made or dream of making in your coop. Share your ideas and setups with fellow chicken enthusiasts, and let’s inspire each other! For some added inspiration, check out “Andre gets curious,” where we delve into the sweet personalities of our beloved birds. Join the conversation and let’s make our coops the ultimate chicken retreats!

Greeting from Piep and Churp
Greetings, fellow chicken enthusiasts! I’m thrilled to introduce our delightful duo, Piep and Churp, who will be clucking around this subreddit more often! They’ve already brought so much joy—and a bit of chaos—into our lives. Speaking of Churp, I have a feathered mystery on my hands: could she be an accidental rooster? The suspense is egg-citing! If you're also navigating the whimsical world of chickens, don’t miss our article, "Please help I don’t know what’s wrong with my rooster!" where fellow members share their experiences. Let’s dive into the delightful madness of chicken keeping together! Looking forward to sharing more cluck-tastic moments with all of you!