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.
Who else loves mystic marans?
Who else loves Mystic Marans? This enchanting breed has captured my heart this year, and I can’t get enough of their delightful personalities! Mystic Marans are not just beautiful with their stunning feather patterns, but they are also incredibly friendly. They often join me for cozy chicken cuddle mornings, bringing a sense of warmth and joy to my day. Whether they’re snuggling up beside me or strutting around the yard, their quirky antics never fail to amuse. If you share my obsession with these feathered friends or have your own stories to tell, let’s celebrate the charm of Mystic Marans together! Join the conversation and share your experiences—because who doesn’t love a little chicken companionship?
what kind of chicken is this
What a delightful conundrum you’ve stumbled upon in your backyard! It sounds like you might have a bantam, which is a miniature version of larger chicken breeds, known for their charming personalities and pint-sized antics. Bantams come in various breeds, each with its own quirks and characteristics, making them both fun and fascinating companions. Given that your hen's mom was small and you have a mix of roosters roaming around, it’s entirely possible she inherited those charming mini traits. Identifying her specific breed can be a bit tricky, but the journey of discovery is egg-citing! So, let’s crack this case wide open and see what feathered friend you’ve got strutting around your yard!
A little sanctuary for the chickens we’ll always remember
Welcome to a little sanctuary dedicated to the chickens we’ll always remember! I’m thrilled to be part of this wonderful community and grateful for the overwhelming response to my recent question about your chickens' names—over 700 messages and more than 3,000 names shared! Each story touched my heart, especially those remembering our feathered friends who have crossed the rainbow bridge. Inspired by these heartfelt memories, I’ve created a virtual chicken sanctuary where you can honor your beloved birds and keep their spirits clucking forever. This project is free, ad-free, and built from my programming passion. I invite you to create your own sanctuary, share your chickens, and let’s celebrate the joy they brought into our lives together! Check it out at https://sanctuary.themachinegg.com/.
My rooster is too fat
Ah, the age-old dilemma of the greedy rooster! It sounds like your feathered friend has mastered the art of hogging the feed and might be strutting around like the king of the coop—perhaps a little too confidently. When one rooster takes charge of the buffet, it can leave the others feeling a bit peckish and frustrated. The good news is that there are plenty of egg-citing strategies to ensure all your birds get their fair share. From portion control to feeding techniques, you can help your chubby chap learn some manners while keeping the peace in the flock. Let’s dive into some cluck-tastic tips to help your rooster slim down and share the love (and the food) with his fellow feathered friends!
Three of my pretty boys right before I let them out to free range for a while
Meet my three charming roosters just before I let them strut their stuff in the great outdoors! The sunny fella in front is full of personality, while the dark beauty behind him is Crow, and the ever-dashing lighter one is Romeo. They have their own cozy little run, but from sunrise until about 11:00, they enjoy the freedom of free-ranging. In total, I have six roosters, including these three and two who hang out with my hens. There's also one lone rooster, a bit too much of a jerk to mingle, but stay tuned for his own spotlight post! I know their coop is a tad cramped—thanks to a fallen tree—but I’m on it and working on rebuilding. Wishing everyone a cluck-tastic morning!
DUBBING ROOSTER
Dubbing your rooster can be a daunting decision, especially when you're feeling the weight of his struggles with that oversized comb and waddle. It’s understandable to worry about the potential bleeding and his overall well-being, particularly if he’s having trouble eating and seeing. While a thick comb can complicate the dubbing process, it’s essential to prioritize his health and comfort. Hand-feeding him is a compassionate solution for now, and waiting until you can consult a vet is a wise choice. Your love for your feathered friend shines through, and you’re not alone in seeking advice. Remember, taking the time to gather information is crucial, especially when it comes to your beloved pet’s care. Keep nurturing that bond!
Today I lost my favorite one and only rooster... my heart is heavy.
Today, my heart feels heavier than a chicken with a full crop. I lost my one and only rooster to a predator attack, and I’m still grappling with the shock of it all. As a devoted poultry lover, these feathered friends are not just animals—they're an integral part of my life and routine. The time and effort I put into caring for them make their loss all the more painful. My rooster wasn’t just a bird; he was my favorite companion, and his lively presence brought so much joy to my days. Now, I’m left with a void that feels impossible to fill. Rest in peace, buddy. Your clucks and antics will be deeply missed. 🥺
Hen or Rooster? …. Or both?!
Welcome to the cluck-tastic conundrum of “Hen or Rooster? … Or both?!” Yesterday, I shared a post about my feathered friend’s curious head-shaking behavior, and the responses left me scratching my head! Some say it’s a hen, others suggest it might be intersex, while a few insist it’s a rooster. With a week of observation, I’ve noticed it doesn’t crow like a typical rooster, only attempting a brief sound before going silent. But this little one is fiercely protective of the flock and struts around with a confident, upright demeanor. Identified as a Partridge Laced Wyandotte, I’m puzzled about its coloring and wing shape—Google hasn't been much help! Join me in unraveling this mystery, and share your thoughts! 🐔✨
Chicks are very interested in the mirror 🪞 🤣 do you think they look at themselves and go omg that’s me? 🤩🦖🐥
Have you ever watched a chick gaze into a mirror and wondered what goes on in that tiny head? 🪞 It’s a cluck-tastic sight! These feathered friends seem utterly fascinated by their own reflection—could they be thinking, “Omg, that’s me!”? 🤩 With their adorable little pecks and curious head tilts, it’s hard not to smile at their antics. Some might say it’s just a case of fowl play, but we know better. Chicks are not only exploring their surroundings but also their own identities in the most whimsical way. So, next time you catch a glimpse of a chick admiring itself, take a moment to appreciate the hilarity and wonder of their self-discovery journey. 🦖🐥 What do you think they see?
My Chicken is Self-Aware
Get ready to cluck with laughter and a hint of disbelief! In "My Chicken is Self-Aware," submitted by the ever-curious u/ForagingApe, we dive into the whimsical world of feathered friends who may just have a bit more on their minds than we realize. This delightful tale explores the quirky antics of a chicken that seems to possess a spark of self-awareness, leaving its owner both amused and slightly bewildered. With a perfect blend of humor and relatable experiences, this story invites us to ponder the delightful mysteries of our poultry companions. So, buckle up for an egg-citing journey that will have you seeing your own chickens in a whole new light.
Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam
Welcome to the Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream, where the cluck-tastic antics of our feathered friends unfold 24/7! Dive into a world filled with egg-citing moments as you watch our charming chickens strut their stuff, engage in fowl play, and maybe even share a heartwarming (or hilarious) chicken moment. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or someone who’s chickening out at the thought of these quirky creatures, this livestream invites you to experience the joy and unpredictability of chicken life from the comfort of your home. Join our vibrant community of chicken enthusiasts, share your thoughts, and discover just how delightful—and sometimes chaotic—chickens can be. Tune in, relax, and let the chicken shenanigans brighten your day!
Sick chicken, yellow fluid.
If your feathered friend Ivy is showing signs of distress, like a penguin-like stance and a throbbing vent, it’s understandable to feel concerned. The yellow fluid you observed could indicate a few possibilities: it might suggest she has an infection or, in a more troubling scenario, that an egg has broken inside her. Given that she's not laying eggs and is displaying discomfort, it's crucial to monitor her closely. While Epsom salt baths can provide some relief, her hunched posture and reduced activity are signals that she needs extra care. Since local veterinary options for chickens are limited, keep her hydrated with water rich in vitamins and electrolytes, and consider researching home remedies or reaching out to online poultry communities for additional support.
Help with chicken health
Oh, cluck! It sounds like you’ve got a bit of fowl play going on in your coop! Your Australorp hen’s situation with the bantam rooster is certainly a concern, especially with a little dried blood involved. It’s not uncommon for roosters to assert their dominance, but it’s important to ensure that your feathered friend feels safe and secure. With seven chickens and just one rooster, it can create a bit of a pecking order drama! Since you’re still in the early stages of your chicken-raising journey, let’s explore some options to help your hen thrive. From creating safe spaces to considering separation during feeding times, there are plenty of ways to restore harmony in your flock. Let’s dive into some suggestions that can help!
Chicken help needed very badly! Called 10 vets already and no one is available today
Hey, chicken lovers! I’m reaching out to this amazing community because I’m in a bit of a cluck-tastrophe with my 6-year-old Wyandotte, Scully. This morning, we discovered she has an impacted egg, and to make things even more egg-citing (in the worst way), she also has a second hole near her cloaca with some not-so-pleasant maggots. After calling 10 vets and finding no one available, I’m turning to you all for some much-needed advice and support. I know the typical remedies for impacted eggs, but this extra complication has me worried. Is she too far gone? Any words of wisdom or encouragement would mean the world to me right now! Thanks a million for your help!
3 broody chickens
In the whimsical world of backyard chickens, it's not uncommon to find our feathered friends in a bit of a squabble—especially when it comes to the precious joy of egg-laying! 🥚 Enter the scene of three broody hens, each vying for the spotlight over a single solitary egg. What unfolds is a delightful tale of clucking antics, territorial squabbles, and a surprising bond that forms amidst the chaos. While they may seem like they’re chickening out of sharing, their quirky personalities shine through as they navigate this egg-citing dilemma. Join us as we dive into this charming story that highlights the hilarity and heart of chicken life, proving that even in competition, there’s always room for love and laughter among our feathered friends! 🐔✨
What is happening? Infection?
Oh no, it sounds like your broody hen is having a bit of a rough time! After two weeks of sitting tight, it’s concerning to find her covered in what looks like blood and sporting a raw spot. The redness around her eyes and comb could indicate a pecking issue or even an infection, especially since she’s been in a confined space. While it’s great that she’s acting normally, it’s crucial to address her condition promptly. Cleaning her up and applying a gentle antiseptic like hydrogen peroxide and Neosporin is a wise move. Keep an eye on her behavior and the injury, and if things don’t improve or worsen, consider reaching out to a vet for some expert advice.
I need help choosing between two Easter Egger chicks!
Hello, lovely chicken people! I find myself in a bit of a clucky conundrum and could use your feathery wisdom. After a recent predator scare left my small flock down to just one adult Easter Egger, I ordered a new batch of 14 chicks—seven of which are Easter Eggers! Now, I’m torn between two adorable candidates for my final EE: one I call Skunk, with striking chipmunk markings, and the other, Mottled, who is sweet and friendly. While I adore their looks, I’m also weighing personality traits, as I’m hoping to strike a balance between snuggly lap chickens and independent thinkers. Join me on this journey of overthinking and let's figure out who should join my flock!
Hard to believe I use to think black chickens were boring
Once upon a time, I thought black chickens were the epitome of boring—just a shadow in the coop, blending into the background. But oh, how my perspective has flipped! Now, if I ever get my hands on a rooster, I want a big, bold black one to strut around like the feathered superstar he is. There’s something captivating about their sleek feathers and mysterious charm that adds a touch of elegance to any flock. It’s a reminder that even the most unassuming creatures can surprise you with their personality. So here’s to the black chickens, proving that they’re anything but dull! Join me on this cluck-tastic journey as we celebrate these often-overlooked beauties. What do you think?
A chicken stealing kittens.
In a cluck-tastic twist of fate, a chicken has taken on the role of an unlikely kitten thief! This feathered friend, known for its quirky antics, has been spotted snatching adorable little furballs right from under their unsuspecting noses. Whether it’s the allure of their playful purring or an innate desire for mischief, this chicken’s fowl play has left the internet in stitches. So, grab your popcorn and prepare for a tale filled with humor and heart as we dive into the escapades of the chicken who just couldn’t resist the charm of kittens. Join the conversation and share your own tales of unexpected animal friendships and antics—because in this whimsical world, anything can happen when feathered friends and furry companions collide!
Yay! Her eggs are green!
Yay! Exciting news from the coop—my new girl is laying eggs, and they’re a stunning olive green! Eeeek! While my husband might not share my enthusiasm, I know my fellow chicken friends will appreciate this cluck-tastic development. 🥚💚 I suspect she’s an Easter egger, given her five toes and that delightful egg color. It’s moments like these that remind us why we love our feathered friends so much, even if they can be a little madcap at times! Who knew a chicken could bring such joy? Join me in celebrating this egg-citing milestone as we dive into the whimsical world of chickens. Have you experienced anything similar with your own flock? Let’s chat about our quirky little companions! 🐔✨
is this size difference normal?
Is the size difference among the chicks normal? In this charming scenario, we have a mother hen proudly tending to her three chicks, hatched just 18-19 days ago. It’s fascinating to observe that two of the chicks are noticeably larger and sport more developed feathers compared to their smaller sibling. Since there are no roosters in your flock, it's likely that neighboring roosters played a role in fertilizing the eggs. Your mother’s theory about the chicks possibly having different fathers could explain their varied appearances. Additionally, it’s worth keeping an eye on the younger pullet's cockerel brother, who’s been limping—though he seems to be improving after quarantine. This delightful mix of personalities in your flock certainly adds to the joy of chicken-keeping!
Dies anyone know if anything other than injury can cause this?
Has your feathered friend suddenly developed an eye issue that’s raising alarm bells? A concerned user, /u/M_Karli, is seeking insights into whether anything other than physical injury could cause such a change in a chick’s eye appearance. With less than a few hours of observation, it's crucial to figure out if this is merely a minor mishap or a sign of something more serious. As her mother works at a tractor supply, they’re considering taking in this chick, but they want to ensure it’s treated and quarantined properly if needed. If you have experience or knowledge about sudden eye changes in chickens, your insights could help guide M_Karli and ensure this little one gets the care it deserves!
Chicken fencing help
Are you ready to create a cluck-tastic fortress for your feathered friends? It sounds like you’re on the right track with that 6-foot hardware cloth to keep those pesky digging predators at bay! When it comes to filling in the area, gravel can provide good drainage and stability, but it might be a bit too tempting for burrowing critters. Soil could work too, especially if you compact it well, but it may not deter determined diggers. For your fence posts, consider a mix of gravel at the base for drainage and soil for stability. Since you're covering the run with netting, it sounds like a feathered paradise in the making—just make sure it’s predator-proof! Happy clucking!
Hen or Roo
Are you caught in a cluck-tastically confusing situation with your feathered friends? It sounds like you might have two roosters on your hands! With your Wyandotte crowing three times in the last two weeks and both birds engaging in a bit of fowl play—constantly squabbling with each other and the others—it’s a strong indication they’re not hens. Roosters can be quite the rascals, often asserting their dominance through raucous crowing and playful brawls. If you're facing the prospect of needing to rehome them, it’s fantastic to hear you have a farm ready to take them in! Remember, even the most spirited roosters deserve a loving home. Let’s dive into the details and see if we can confirm their gender together!