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.
8 week lavender Orpington
Wondering whether your 8-week-old lavender Orpington is a hen or a roo? You’re not alone! The journey of figuring this out can be a cluck-tastic adventure filled with twists and turns. Early on, her comb popped up and turned a lovely shade of pink, leading to a strong belief that she was a cockerel by 4 or 5 weeks. However, as time passed, she grew into her features, and the wattle growth remained minimal. Interestingly, she behaves like a sweet pullet—shy and one of the least dominant in the flock. With younger companions, like the Turken and legbar in the pictures, you’re left pondering: is she a future egg-layer or a feathery fella? Let’s dive into this delightful mystery together!
Is this normal behavior?
Is your little chick indulging in a dust bath marathon? Fear not! It sounds like she’s just embracing her inner diva, perfecting the art of dust bathing—an essential chicken ritual that keeps their feathers clean and fabulous. At just two weeks old, she’s likely experimenting with this delightful behavior, and five minutes of dust bathing is quite normal for a curious chick! The fact that her fellow feathered friends are having a blast picking shavings off her just adds to the fun. Planning to introduce sand next week is egg-citing news that will surely elevate her bathing experience! So, sit back and enjoy the show; your chicks are just being their playful selves!
Baby chicken :)
Meet the adorable bundle of fluff that’s sure to steal your heart—baby chickens! These tiny, cluck-tastic creatures are not only cute but also full of personality. With their soft, downy feathers and curious little peeps, it’s hard not to fall head over heels for these feathered friends. Whether they’re waddling around the coop or snuggling up for a nap, baby chickens bring a delightful mix of joy and chaos to any backyard. They remind us that life can be both whimsical and unpredictable, much like our love-hate relationship with all things chicken. So, if you’ve ever found yourself chickening out at the thought of raising these little fluff balls, fear not!
How to introduce new chickens to chicken flock?!
Introducing new chickens to your flock can feel like an egg-citing adventure, especially when you’re adding nine pullets to your existing trio of roosters and one lovely hen. Since you’re already familiar with your current feathered friends, it’s important to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved. Patience is key! Wait until the new pullets are fully feathered and close to the same size as your established chickens. When the time comes, try the “see but don’t touch” method—keep the new arrivals in a separate pen where they can get acquainted visually. Gradually allow supervised interactions, and watch for any signs of fowl play. With careful introductions, your flock will soon be clucking in harmony! Happy chicken parenting!
I just want to post my babys
Have you ever found yourself in a clucking conundrum, wanting to share your adorable feathered friends with the world? Well, you’re in luck! In this delightful post submitted by /u/milkedbarista, we dive into the whimsical world of chicken cuteness. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken wrangler or someone who’s still chickening out at the thought of these fowl creatures, this is the perfect spot for you. With a sprinkle of humor and a dash of vulnerability, we invite you to enjoy some egg-citing moments featuring these charming birds. So, gather ‘round, fellow chicken enthusiasts! Let’s appreciate the quirks and antics of our beloved babys in a way that’s both fun and relatable. Check out the post and join the conversation!
First time hatching Silkie chicks
Hey fellow chicken enthusiasts! I’m on day 17 of my first adventure hatching Silkie chicks with my broody hen, and everything seems to be going cluck-tastic so far! To keep my feathered friends safe, I’ve set up a cozy separated area in my regular coop, but I also have a rabbit hutch available that could serve as a safe haven after the hatch. I’m torn between leaving them in the coop or moving them to the hutch post-hatching. I want to ensure they have space to explore while keeping them protected from the other chickens. Since these are Silkies, I’m curious if their unique traits affect my decision. Any advice from seasoned Silkie parents would be egg-citingly appreciated! Thanks a bunch!
Breeding run?
Hey everyone! So, here’s the cluck-tastic scoop: after a predator attack, I’m revamping my chicken run from scratch. I’ve got a 35'x35' space to play with and plan to create separate sections for breeding. Each section will house 8-10 hens and a rooster, focusing on our Hmongs and backyard mixes, while adding a few new breeds to our lineup. Safety is my top priority this time around, so I’m going for a sturdy perimeter with 4x4 posts and hardware cloth, plus rocks to deter diggers. Now, I’m pondering whether to build the perimeter first and then section it off with 2x2 chicken fencing or make each section a standalone run. Any advice from fellow chicken enthusiasts would be much appreciated!
What could be causing missing feathers and redness?
Are your feathered friends looking a bit ragged and red? Missing feathers and skin redness can be concerning for any chicken keeper. Several factors might be at play, from pesky pests like mites and lice to more serious issues such as feather pecking among the flock. Stressful living conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or even underlying health problems can contribute to these feather faux pas. It’s essential to investigate the environment and behaviors of your flock, as well as their diet, to pinpoint the root cause. Fear not, fellow chicken enthusiast! With a little detective work, you can help your birds regain their cluck-tastic glory and keep them feeling their best. Let's dive into the possible culprits behind this feathered dilemma!
Moved into a chicken MESS
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken chaos! After settling into your new rental with a spacious fenced backyard, you discovered the delightful—yet daunting—leftovers from the previous tenant's feathered friends. While the promise of chickens once seemed like a fun possibility, you now face a 10'x5' pit of chicken waste that’s both a stinky eyesore and a temptation for your curious dogs. The main coop? A whole other level of messiness, complete with remnants of a chicken and a hint of mold. Don’t worry; you’re not alone in this fowl predicament! Let’s dig into some cluck-tastic solutions to tackle the waste and the coop, ensuring your backyard can be a clean and safe haven for both you and your pups.
don’t have chickens yet, but I want to be educated before I start.
So, you're ready to dive into the cluck-tastic world of chickens and ducks while planning your future homestead! It sounds like a delightful journey ahead on that land inherited from your fiancé's great grandparents. Starting with Cayuga ducks is egg-citing—they're known for their charming personalities and beautiful plumage. As for chickens, don’t worry if your choices evolve; research will help you find the perfect feathered friends that thrive in your climate. Regarding your questions, no, you don’t need a rooster unless you want to hatch eggs, so breathe easy on that front! As for space, a good rule of thumb is about 4 square feet per chicken in the coop and 10 square feet in the yard. Welcome to the quirky adventure of chicken keeping!
Egg consumption is associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s Disease for those 65 years and older. Eating one egg per day for at least five days a week reduces risk of Alzheimer’s by up to 27%, researchers found.
Egg-citing news, fellow chicken lovers! A recent study reveals that indulging in one egg a day—at least five days a week—might just be a cluck-tastic way to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease for those aged 65 and older. Researchers found that this simple dietary choice can reduce the risk by a whopping 27%. So, while we chicken tenders may have our quirks and fears about our feathered friends, it turns out our daily egg habit might be more than just a delicious breakfast—it could be a step towards better brain health! Who knew that our love for eggs could carry such awesome benefits? Let’s keep clucking about this and spread the word!
Keel bone growing prominent in two of my girls
Oh, cluck! It sounds like you’re in a bit of a pickle with your feathered friends. Seeing keel bones becoming prominent can be a worrying sight, especially when you’ve experienced similar concerns in the past. It’s reassuring that your girls are still laying eggs, have healthy appetites, and are producing regular droppings—those are all good signs! While it’s natural to feel a bit anxious, remember that not every change indicates a serious issue. Consulting a vet can provide clarity and peace of mind, even if the thought of cancer is unsettling. Many chicken owners have navigated similar fears, and some have shared stories of resilience and survival. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for your girls and explore ways to support their health together!
Im pretty sure my 5 week old chicken Sephiroth is a roo
It sounds like you’ve got quite the feathered friend in Sephiroth! With his chaotic antics and those vibrant red comb and wattles sprouting up at just four weeks, it’s hard not to suspect he’s a rooster. It’s always a bit of a clucking mystery when it comes to identifying our feathered pals, but your confidence makes a strong case! Plus, the playful bond you share with Sephiroth adds a dash of fun to the whole guessing game. Let’s rally the chicken community for their expert opinions and see if we can confirm your instincts! After all, whether he’s a rooster or not, Sephiroth is sure to keep you entertained. So, what do you think, fellow chicken enthusiasts? Let’s weigh in!
Chickens and watermelon
There’s something absolutely cluck-tastic about watching chickens bask in the sunshine while enjoying a juicy slice of watermelon! It’s a delightful scene that combines the silliness of our feathered friends with the refreshing taste of summer. As the chickens peck and poke at their vibrant pink treat, you can’t help but smile at their quirky antics. Some may strut confidently, while others might be a bit more hesitant, chickening out from the juicy goodness. This playful interaction not only highlights their unique personalities but also showcases how simple pleasures can bring joy to our lives—and to theirs! So, grab a slice of watermelon, sit back, and enjoy this egg-citing moment with your own feathered friends. You're welcome! 🐔🐓🍉
Anyone else has a chicken who head dives into the treat bag? She gets judged too
Have you ever witnessed a chicken execute a perfect head dive into a treat bag? If you have, you know exactly how both amusing and slightly chaotic it can be! This cheeky behavior often draws judging looks from fellow feathered friends, but let’s be honest—it’s just our clucky pals being their quirky selves! Submitted by the delightful u/M0mst3r1, this post captures the hilarity of chickens embracing their inner acrobat in pursuit of goodies. Whether you find this headfirst approach to treats endearing or a little outrageous, one thing's for sure: our chickens bring a whole new meaning to the term “dive right in.” Join the conversation and share your own chicken antics—because who doesn’t love a good laugh about our feathered friends?
Chicken on the loose? Or just posing?
Is there anything more amusing than a chicken on the run? Meet Cookies, our feathered friend who decided that the backyard was just too boring for her adventurous spirit! This delightful snapshot captures her in a moment of pure chicken charm, right before I had to swoop in and rescue her from her daring escapade. Who knew a simple photo could tell a tale of excitement and a hint of chaos? It’s moments like these that remind us of the quirky antics our chickens bring to our lives. Join the cluck-tastic conversation about the joys and challenges of chicken keeping. Have you ever had a runaway chicken? Share your stories and let’s bond over the delightful madness that comes with our feathered companions!
"The Quack House" (OP)
Welcome to "The Quack House," where we’re shaking up the world of duck housing—because let's be honest, ducks are just poultry-adjacent to our beloved chickens! Whether you’re a seasoned duck parent or simply curious about these feathered friends, you’re in for a cluck-tastic ride. Ducks may not have the same reputation as chickens, but they bring their own unique charm and antics that can brighten any backyard. From quirky decor ideas to practical enhancements, we’ll explore how to jazz up your duck house while keeping it cozy and functional. So, grab your rubber boots and get ready for some egg-citing tips that will make your quackers feel right at home! Let's dive in and embrace the delightful world of ducks together!
Hen or Roo?
When it comes to identifying whether you have a hen or a rooster among your 10-12 week old Easter Eggers, the journey can be a bit of a cluck-tastic mystery! It sounds like you’re already noticing signs that have you scratching your head. With four Easter Eggers out of six, it’s natural to wonder about that lanky body type and those longer, greenish tail feathers. While no behavior suggests it’s a roo just yet, these physical traits can be telling. Fear not, though—this is all part of the whimsical adventure of chicken-keeping! Whether you end up with a feathered friend or an unexpected crowing companion, embracing the quirks of your flock is what makes this experience truly egg-citing. Happy chicken watching!
Chickens first night visitor
When the sun sets and your feathered friends settle in for the night, the last thing you want is an unexpected visitor—especially a sly fox! If you find yourself in city limits, dealing with urban wildlife can feel particularly daunting. Fear not, fellow chicken lover! While the thought of a fox lurking nearby might make you want to cluck and dash for cover, there are practical steps you can take to protect your flock. From reinforcing your coop to setting up clever deterrents, this guide will help you keep your chickens safe and sound. So, gather your wit and whimsy, and let’s dive into some egg-citing solutions to outsmart those crafty night prowlers!
SoCal Rehoming: 4 Beloved Young Laying Hens (3 Ameraucanas & 1 Easter Egger) — Must Stay Together 🪺
🐔✨ Meet "The Flightless Gemstones"—four beloved young laying hens in search of a forever home! Relocating for work means I can’t take my feathered friends with me, and it breaks my heart to part with them. This charming flock consists of three purebred Ameraucanas (Lavender, Splash, and Black) and one delightful Easter Egger (Golden Brown), all born on May 19, 2025. They’re Marek’s Disease vaccinated and have been laying about 20 stunning blue and green eggs weekly since December. Each hen has her own quirky personality, and they thrive on a calm routine, making them perfect companions for families, including those with children. It’s crucial they stay together—let’s find them a safe, loving home! 🏡❤️
Tiger
Meet Tiger, the cluck-tastic creation submitted by u/james3dprinting! This feathered friend is not just any chicken; Tiger embodies a whimsical blend of creativity and craftsmanship that will leave you egg-cited. With its vibrant colors and playful design, Tiger captures the quirky charm that makes chickens such beloved companions. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of feathered friends, this unique piece promises to bring a smile to your face. So, don’t chicken out! Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and let’s celebrate the delightful madness of chicken appreciation together. Check out the link for more details and join in on the fun in the comments!
Can I hatch fertile efeigerated eggs?
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! So, you’re curious about hatching those fertile refrigerated eggs from your hen—what a cluck-tastic adventure! While you’ve successfully hatched quail eggs before, chicken eggs can be a bit different. The good news is that as long as those eggs are fertile and haven’t been in the coldest conditions, there's a chance they might still be viable. Before you crack open the incubator and get things rolling, let’s dive into some egg-citing tips and tricks for incubating chicken eggs. From temperature settings to humidity levels, we’ll make sure your hatch is as smooth as a freshly laid egg. Get ready to embrace the whimsical world of chicken hatching!
he likes to act like a model
Meet a true showstopper who knows how to strut his stuff—he’s got the looks that could launch a thousand coops! With a handsome charm that turns heads and a flair for posing like a professional model, he brings a sprinkle of glamour to the everyday. Whether he’s basking in the sun or playfully pecking at the ground, his confidence shines through, captivating everyone around him. It’s no wonder he enjoys the spotlight; he embodies the perfect blend of charisma and style. So, if you’re looking for a feathered friend who not only stands out in a crowd but also knows how to flaunt his good looks, this handsome fowl is sure to tickle your fancy and steal your heart!
Need help and advice.
Oh, the drama in the chicken coop! It sounds like your twin roosters had quite the dust-up, leaving you with some feathered friends in need of TLC. First off, it’s not uncommon for roosters, even those who grew up together, to suddenly clash—sometimes it’s just the pecking order in action! As for the beak situation, if it’s not too severely damaged, there’s a chance it can heal, but beaks do take time and care to mend. Keeping the area clean and applying the right medicine is crucial. And about those brothers—while they may need some time apart to cool their feathers, with the right approach, they could potentially reunite.