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.
i have a great idea for owners of noisy chickens
If you’re a suburban chicken owner like me, you know that those early morning clucks can ruffle more than just feathers—especially when neighbors are trying to enjoy a peaceful morning. I found a cluck-tastic solution to keep my noisy hens happy and my neighbors smiling! By using an automatic cat feeder filled with chicken scratch, I’ve created a delightful breakfast routine. The feeder dispenses a little treat every 15 minutes from 7 to 8 a.m., keeping my feathered friends occupied until their automatic door opens. With a 5-gallon hopper, I can fill it up and forget about it, ensuring my hens stay quiet during those crucial early hours. Happy hens, happy neighbors—what more could you ask for?

What is wrong with my new rescued chickens?
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you've embarked on a cluck-tastic adventure by rescuing three new feathered friends! However, noticing some differences around their eyes compared to your existing flock can certainly raise a few alarm bells. It’s understandable to feel concerned, especially with your dad mentioning “fowl pox”—a term that can sound quite intimidating. But fear not! While it’s possible they may have been lacking proper nutrition or care, it’s essential to gather more information before jumping to conclusions. Your worries about their eye area are valid, and the chicken community is here to help! If anyone has insights or experiences to share about these eye concerns, let’s crow about it together! Thank you for reaching out!

Favorite laying chicken feed? (Mold pic on 2nd & 3rd pic)
Hey, chicken enthusiasts! 🐔 Are you on a quest for the perfect laying feed? Our fellow flock friend, /u/Kayleighxxc, has been dealing with a frustrating dilemma—moldy bags of “Purina Layena 16% protein layer pellets.” Despite the bag looking dry on the outside, it seems that mold has become an unwelcome guest. With this recurring issue, Kayleigh is reaching out for help and advice: Is this a common problem, or is there a better laying feed out there? If you’ve had success with other brands or have tips for avoiding moldy feed, now’s your chance to share! Let’s cluck together and help Kayleigh keep her feathered friends happy and healthy! 🥚✨

Hens driving me Nuts
Welcome to the delightful chaos of chicken parenting, where Rosi, my feisty Brahma hen, is driving me absolutely nuts! Rosi adores chicks, and her relentless attempts to snatch the little ones from another broody hen have turned my days into a feathered frenzy. Last year, I thought I’d found the perfect solution by introducing some day-old Brahma chicks, but this time, Rosi wasn’t having it. She pecked at them until they squawked, leaving me to rescue them and place them safely in a rabbit cage in my bathroom. Meanwhile, Rosi is on a mission to reclaim her coveted chicks, and let’s just say, she’s not too pleased with the current arrangement. Who knew chicken drama could be this entertaining—and exhausting?

Chicken drinking
Meet our adorable feathered friend, who’s currently dealing with a bit of a cluck-up—crop inflammation! While she may not be feeling her best, her cuteness is still off the charts. It's a reminder that even our beloved chickens can have their off days, and it’s essential to keep a watchful eye on their health. Crop issues can be a common concern, but don’t worry; with some TLC and care, she’ll be back to her peck-tacular self in no time! So, let’s all rally together and send positive vibes her way. After all, our feathered friends deserve all the love and support, especially when they're under the weather. Join the conversation and share your own experiences with chicken health—let's cluck about it!

Coop Enrichment 🤩🤙
Today, I embarked on a cluck-tastic adventure in coop enrichment! I transformed an old wooden ladder into a whimsical perch setup, suspended on bungees right above the coop door in their run. To my surprise, my feathered friends—Queenie, Ginny, Lettie, and Evie—quickly claimed it as their own playground! Watching them explore, balance, and interact with their new setup has been one of the most rewarding parts of raising these quirky chicks. Each day brings new discoveries and personality traits to the surface, from Queenie’s vigilant neighborhood watch to Ginny’s tiny goth charm. I’m eager to hear about your coop enrichment ideas too! Let’s share our fowl play experiences and inspire each other! 🐔💖
My girls won’t go inside!
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friends have decided that the roof is the place to be! Chickens can be quite the quirky creatures, and their sudden preference for the coop's rooftop over the cozy confines of their home can leave us scratching our heads. You're doing all the right things by ensuring a clean space and providing a wider roost bar—kudos for that! Since it’s pitch black by closing time, your girls might just be feeling a bit adventurous or perhaps they're enjoying the fresh air a little too much. Let's explore some fun solutions together to coax them back inside! After all, we want our cluck-tastic pals to feel safe and snug in their coop. What do you say?

5 month Rooster update
It’s been five cluck-tastic months since we rescued Curly, our ditched rooster from the local park, and what a wild ride it’s been! This feathered hero has not only brought joy to our backyard flock but has also saved them from a sneaky fox that thought it could steal the show. Curly has embraced his role with gusto, siring seven healthy chicks and proving to be an unexpected necessity in our little chicken community. His quirky personality and protective spirit have made him a beloved member of the family. Join us as we celebrate Curly's remarkable journey and the delightful chaos he brings to our lives. Here’s to more egg-citing adventures ahead!
Sad story but informative
Losing two sweet ladies in such a short time is a heart-wrenching experience for any chicken keeper, especially when they were thriving Copper Marans, just over a year old and laying well. The sudden deaths prompted a trip to the state lab, driven by concerns about bird flu. Thankfully, the results ruled that out, but the diagnosis of Fatty Liver Hemorrhagic Syndrome was a bitter pill to swallow. This unfortunate condition could likely have been prevented, raising questions about diet choices. While feeding a balanced 16% protein feed supplemented with mealworms and sunflower seeds, it turns out that the high-carb treats, especially cracked corn, may have contributed to this tragedy.

Nacho!
Meet Nacho! – the feathered friend who's as cluck-tastic as they come! Submitted by the delightful /u/maxwutcosmo, Nacho is not just your average chicken; he’s a whirlwind of personality wrapped in feathers. With a penchant for egg-citing adventures and a flair for fowl play, Nacho embodies the quirky spirit that makes chickens both charming and a tad unpredictable. Whether he’s strutting around the yard or engaging in playful antics, this little guy is sure to bring a smile to your face. Join us in celebrating Nacho’s whimsical journey, and perhaps you’ll discover that the love-hate relationship with our feathered friends is truly egg-squisite! Check out the link for an entertaining peek into Nacho’s world and the comments for some clucky discussions!
Chickens attacked by raccoon
Oh no! It sounds like you've found yourself in a tough spot with your feathered friends after a raccoon raid. Losing two chickens is heartbreaking, especially when your son is attached to them. It’s great that you’ve already taken steps to care for the injured birds, like providing warmth, antibiotics, and cleaning their wounds. Chickens are resilient creatures, but they do need extra love and attention after such a traumatic event. While a vet visit can be pricey, there are some home remedies and supportive care practices you can explore. Keeping them comfortable, ensuring they have a clean environment, and monitoring their healing progress is essential. Let’s rally together to share ideas and help your chickens on their road to recovery!
Chickens in cold weather
When it comes to our feathered friends, ensuring they thrive in all seasons is essential, especially during the chilly winter months. Chickens are surprisingly resilient creatures, but they do have their limits when it comes to cold weather. In colder climates, you might notice them seeking refuge indoors, huddling together for warmth like a cozy chicken cuddle party. This behavior raises an intriguing question: can chickens truly be considered free-range if they prefer to stay inside during winter? It’s not about making a judgment, but rather understanding the reality of their lives in harsh conditions. By exploring how chickens adapt to cold weather, we can better appreciate their needs and ensure they enjoy a happy, healthy life, even when the temperatures drop.
I may have stolen a chicken today!
I may have inadvertently stolen a chicken today, and it’s a cluck-tastic tale! Living in a rural area surrounded by neighbors who also have chickens, I’m no stranger to the occasional poultry adventure. While returning home from the store, I spotted one of my neighbor’s ISA browns wandering about 40 yards from her coop. Curious and perhaps a bit mischievous, I couldn’t resist picking her up and returning her to safety. She was surprisingly hefty and incredibly calm—definitely not like my own more skittish hens. As I settled everyone in for the night, I counted 15 instead of my usual 14! Now I’m left wondering which neighbor might be missing their feathered friend and if she'll find her way home in the morning.

Trouble Makers
Ah, the delightful chaos of enjoying a nice day with our feathered friends! In “Trouble Makers - Enjoying a nice day,” we dive into the whimsical world where chickens reign supreme, turning even the simplest activities into egg-citing adventures. Picture this: a serene afternoon quickly transformed into a comical escapade as our lovable troublemakers strut their stuff, setting the stage for a light-hearted romp filled with laughter and unexpected surprises. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken whisperer or someone who finds themselves chickening out at the sight of these feathery mischief-makers, this piece invites you to embrace the quirky joys and relatable mishaps that come with spending time in their clucky company.

Is it 100% that this chick is a rooster lol?? Has very hen like feathers… long tail… and the comb is yellow on top (sorry for the unfocused video)
In the delightful world of poultry, deciphering the gender of your feathered friends can feel like a wild guessing game! Meet our subject: a chick with a perplexing mix of hen-like feathers, a long tail, and a yellow-topped comb. The question on everyone’s beak is whether this little one is a rooster or just a very unique hen. Many chicken enthusiasts can relate to the thrill and uncertainty of identifying their flock. While roosters often flaunt vibrant plumage and distinct combs, this chick's appearance might just be throwing us a curveball. Join the conversation to share your insights, experiences, and perhaps a little cluck-tastic humor as we unravel this feathered mystery together!

Chicken combo? (Flock 🐓🐓🐓 not bucket 🍗)
Looking to create a cluck-tastic chicken combo for your small flock? After a long hiatus due to the avian flu outbreak, you're ready to dive back into the delightful world of feathered friends, inspired by Arthur Parkinson’s charming *Hen Party*. With your fondness for cream legbars, silver and blue laced Wyandottes, and lavender araucanas, you're seeking harmonious combinations for a flock of 5 to 6. You want breeds that are as gentle as they are beautiful, especially with your wooded surroundings. Let’s explore some fabulous options that won't send you chickening out! Share your favorite breeds, and let's create the ultimate feathered dream team that thrives in your backyard paradise!

Does she look like a frizzle?
Have you ever found yourself gazing at a chicken and wondering, “Does she look like a frizzle?” If so, you’re not alone! This delightful inquiry, submitted by u/XxGensi_ArumxX, opens the door to a fun exploration of one of the quirkiest feathered friends in the chicken world. Frizzles, with their unique curled feathers, bring a splash of whimsy and charm to any coop, making them a favorite among chicken enthusiasts. Join us as we dive into the delightful characteristics of frizzles, share some cluck-tastic insights, and perhaps help you determine if your own feathered friend fits the frizzle bill. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or just enjoying the feathered antics from afar, this discussion promises to ruffle some feathers in the best way possible!

First taste of freedom outside their run :)
Get ready for a cluck-tastic adventure as we dive into the first taste of freedom for our feathered friends! Submitted by the lovely /u/Beautiful-Project-30, this delightful moment captures the sheer joy of chickens stepping out of their cozy run and into the great outdoors. Picture this: curious little beaks poking around, fluffy bodies waddling in excitement, and the irresistible urge to explore every nook and cranny. It’s a heartwarming reminder of the delightful quirks of chicken life and how these charming creatures can bring a splash of joy (and a hint of chaos) into our days. Join us as we celebrate this egg-citing milestone in their journey—a true testament to the playful spirit of our beloved cluckers! 🐔✨

7 week old Road Island Red chick. Roo or hen?
Meet our 7-week-old Rhode Island Red chick, born on March 17, 2026! As first-time Rhode Island Red owners, we’re navigating the delightful yet sometimes bewildering world of chicken parenting. We find ourselves questioning whether our little feathered friend is a roo or a hen. At this age, distinguishing between genders can be a bit tricky, especially since we’re drawing comparisons with our other breeds. Rhode Island Reds are known for their charming personalities, but they can also be a bit confusing! If you have any insights or tips on how to tell if our chick is strutting toward roosterhood or clucking gracefully as a hen, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Join us in this cluck-tastic journey!

Any clues on gender? They’re about 4 weeks old. “Moss eggers”
Curious about the gender of your adorable 4-week-old Moss Eggers? You’re not alone! These feathered friends can be a bit of a mystery when it comes to determining their sex at such a young age. While many chicken enthusiasts rely on physical traits and behaviors, it’s essential to remember that each chick is unique and may develop at different rates. Look for signs like feather growth patterns, comb development, and even vocalizations, as these can offer clues. However, don't stress too much—many chicken lovers have a love-hate relationship with the guessing game of gender. Share your findings and observations with fellow enthusiasts in our community, and let’s navigate this cluck-tastic journey together!

I would like to introduce you all to Peewee! They are a cochin bantam just like may, but she is of the bobtail variation :) we are so happy to have them!
Meet Peewee, the latest addition to our feathered family! This charming cochin bantam, sporting the adorable bobtail variation, is sure to steal your heart. Just like May, Peewee brings a delightful blend of personality and quirks that make our chicken community so special. We’re absolutely cluck-tastic to welcome her into our coop! Whether she’s strutting around or making new friends, we can’t wait to see the mischief she brings. Join us in celebrating Peewee’s arrival and share your own thoughts and experiences with our feathered friends. Together, let’s embrace the joy and unpredictability that comes with raising chickens. Welcome, Peewee! We’re so happy to have you! [link] [comments]

Our newest addition! Meet peewee :D my partner thinks they're a girl but I have high suspicions there a little rooster, either way they are so loved!
Introducing our newest feathered friend: Peewee! 🐥 This adorable addition has already captured our hearts, but there’s a bit of a cluck-tastrophe brewing over their gender. While my partner is convinced Peewee is a girl, I’m raising my eyebrows and suspecting they might just be a little rooster in disguise. No matter the outcome, one thing is clear: Peewee is showered with love and affection, and we can’t get enough of their charming antics. Whether they’re strutting around or snuggling up, this little one brings joy and laughter to our days. Join us in welcoming Peewee to the flock, and let’s see what delightful adventures await with this quirky newcomer! Check out the link for more on Peewee’s journey! [link] [comments]

Why's my chicken doing this??
Is your feathered friend acting a bit quirky? If your chicken is slowly toppling over and seems to be seizing, it’s time to cluck into action. This behavior can be alarming, especially after the loss of another chicken in your flock. Chickens can experience various health issues, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to neurological disorders, which may cause them to lose balance or act strangely. It’s important to observe any other symptoms she might exhibit, such as changes in appetite or lethargy. While it’s natural to feel a bit frazzled in moments like these, understanding what could be happening is the first step toward getting her the help she needs.

Mystery chick
Oh, the thrill of a mystery chick! You’ve just received a feathered surprise with your hatchery order, and now you’re on a quest to unveil its breed—how egg-citing! It’s like a game of chicken detective, and we totally get how this delightful challenge can drive you a little clucky. Identifying your mystery chick can be a fun yet perplexing adventure, especially when you’re eager to learn more about your new feathered friend. Fear not, fellow chicken enthusiast! With a bit of keen observation and some community insights, we can crack the case together. So, let’s dive into the clues and uncover the secrets of your mysterious chick. Get ready to embrace the whimsy of chicken identification!