chickens

chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 2943 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.

first chicken bathing
chickens

first chicken bathing

Bathing your chicken for the first time can be a cluck-tastic experience, but it can also leave you scratching your head—especially when you see them standing in the water with their claws! Is this normal behavior? Absolutely! Chickens are quirky creatures, and their approach to bathing can vary widely. Some may take to the water like a duck (or should we say chicken?) while others might prefer to just dip their toes. It's all part of their unique charm. Bathing not only helps keep your feathered friends clean but can also be a bonding experience for both of you. So, embrace the madness and enjoy the splashes—your chicken is just being its fabulous self!

chickens

Injury and Integration

In the whimsical world of chicken care, sometimes our feathered friends face unexpected challenges that leave us scratching our heads. Meet a concerned chicken parent, Jolly_Satisfaction94, who recently welcomed a flock of pullets, only to discover one of her olive eggers in distress. After an unfortunate injury led to feather loss and bleeding, she took immediate action by separating and treating the affected bird. Now, three weeks later, the poor pullet is struggling to reintegrate with her flock, facing stress and a lack of appetite. With her companions growing larger and her feathers slow to return, Jolly_Satisfaction94 is seeking advice on how to help her beloved chick. Let’s dive into some cluck-tastic strategies for supporting this little one during her recovery!

chickens

Struggling Baby Chick

I’m reaching out with a heavy heart regarding a recently hatched baby chick that seems to be struggling. This little one, born just yesterday evening, took over a day to emerge from its shell, and I'm deeply concerned about its well-being. While four of its siblings are thriving under the care of my hens, this chick has some noticeable issues. One of its wings appears damaged, almost like a nub, and its leg seems limp. Despite its closed eyes, it's still chirping softly, which gives me a glimmer of hope. I plan to call the avian vet first thing in the morning for guidance. In the meantime, I would greatly appreciate any recommendations, thoughts, well wishes, or prayers for this feathered friend.

Frizzles with noodle like feathers?
chickens

Frizzles with noodle like feathers?

Have you ever encountered frizzles with feathers resembling noodle-like spaghetti? It’s a curious phenomenon that might have you wondering if it’s a Cochin frizzle trait! While I’ve got a Serama frizzle with typical curled feathers, these feathered friends sport a unique texture that’s reminiscent of string cheese—how delightfully quirky! Could they be a mix of Cochin frizzles and silkies, creating a low-grade woolie? Intriguingly, their skin isn’t black, and they only have four toes, which adds to the puzzle. If you’re as fascinated by these feathered wonders as I am, let’s dive into the delightful world of frizzles and unravel this mystery together! Join the conversation and share your thoughts below!

Chicken napping with head up? Is this a cause for concern?
chickens

Chicken napping with head up? Is this a cause for concern?

Ever caught your feathered friend taking a nap with their head held high? While it might look adorable, it can leave any chicken parent scratching their head in concern. This quirky sleeping position could raise questions about your chicken's health, especially if it's the first time you're noticing it. Is it just a unique quirk of their personality, or could it be an early sign of wry neck? Wry neck, or torticollis, can affect chickens and may stem from various causes, including nutritional deficiencies or infections. Let’s dive into the details and unravel the mystery behind this head-up snooze, ensuring your chicken's well-being while keeping the conversation light and engaging. After all, our feathered friends deserve the best care, even during their most whimsical moments!

One of my chickens thinks she's a hawk
chickens

One of my chickens thinks she's a hawk

Ever had a feathered friend who thinks she's the queen of the sky? Meet my chicken, who seems to believe she’s a hawk in disguise! This adventurous little clucker has taken to surprising me during my photo sessions in the coop. It’s become quite the spectacle—every time I try to capture a moment, she swoops in for an unexpected landing on my arm. It’s like living with a tiny feathered daredevil! But this time, I managed to snap a picture of her bold antics. Her antics are equal parts hilarious and bewildering, and I can't help but wonder what goes on in that quirky little mind of hers. Join me in celebrating this cluck-tastic moment! Check out the photo and share your own feathered adventures!

just selfie
chickens

just selfie

Get ready to cluck with laughter! In this egg-citing submission from **u/Feisty_Economics1323**, we dive into the delightful world of selfies with a whimsical twist. This piece captures the light-hearted joy of snapping photos with our feathered friends, showcasing the quirky and often hilarious moments that arise when chickens steal the spotlight. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just a casual admirer, this post is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever tried to wrangle a wayward chicken for that perfect shot. So, grab your phone and prepare for some fowl play as we celebrate the fun, laughter, and the occasional chaos that comes with capturing those unforgettable moments in the company of our beloved chickens!

New Mom on Day 1
chickens

New Mom on Day 1

Welcome to the delightful world of Silkie hens and their adorable chicks! On Day 1, we’re diving into the heartwarming journey of a new mom—our lovely Silkie hen—who’s just welcomed her fluffy little ones. These feathered friends are known for their quirky personalities and soft, fluffy feathers that make them as charming as they are unique. With the hashtag #380coop, join us as we explore the joys and challenges of motherhood in the coop. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just curious about these delightful creatures, you’ll find plenty of cluck-tastic moments, tips, and a sense of community as we celebrate this new chapter. Let’s embark on this egg-citing adventure together!

8 Week Old Polish Gender
chickens

8 Week Old Polish Gender

Welcome to the delightful world of Polish chickens! At eight weeks old, determining whether your feathered friend is a hen or rooster can feel like a game of fowl guesswork. Polish chickens are renowned for their striking appearances, with their fluffy crests and dazzling feathers, making them a favorite among poultry enthusiasts. However, distinguishing between the genders at this age can be quite the clucking challenge. Fear not! With a little knowledge and a keen eye, you can spot the telltale signs that reveal whether you have a charming hen or a dashing rooster in your coop. Join us as we explore the clues that will help you uncover the mystery of your Polish companion's gender. Let's get egg-cited about this feathered adventure!

Serama/Kikirikis
chickens

Serama/Kikirikis

Welcome to the delightful world of Serama and Kikirikis in the Fountain, Colorado area! These pint-sized poultry pals are not just chickens; they’re the feathered friends that bring joy and a sprinkle of whimsy to any backyard. Known for their charming personalities and vibrant plumage, Seramas are the world’s smallest chicken breed, while Kikirikis add a unique twist with their lively antics and striking appearances. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just curious about these quirky critters, there’s always something egg-citing happening in this cluck-tastic community. Join us as we explore the joys, challenges, and all the fowl play that comes with raising these incredible mini-chickens. Get ready to embrace the madness and join the fun, one feather at a time!

Drumstick the one legged wonder gets faster everyday - today she started learning how to use her wings to balance and now she’s unstoppable
chickens

Drumstick the one legged wonder gets faster everyday - today she started learning how to use her wings to balance and now she’s unstoppable

Meet Drumstick, the one-legged wonder who’s redefining what it means to be unstoppable! Every day, this feisty feathered friend surprises us all with her incredible speed and determination. Today marks a feather-ruffling milestone as Drumstick embarks on an exciting new adventure—learning to use her wings for balance! With a spirit that’s as vibrant as her plumage, she’s proving that obstacles are just opportunities in disguise. Whether she’s zooming around the coop or mastering her aerial antics, Drumstick is a true inspiration for all chicken lovers and those who appreciate a good underdog story. Join us in cheering her on as she takes flight—because in Drumstick’s world, nothing is impossible! Keep an eye on this cluck-tastic gal; the sky's the limit! [link] [comments].

Show your chicken from this angle, its the best 🤣🤣🤣🤣
chickens

Show your chicken from this angle, its the best 🤣🤣🤣🤣

Get ready to cluck with laughter as we dive into a cheeky showcase of poultry perfection! Submitted by the ever-creative /u/inkofthemountain, this post invites you to take a closer look at your favorite feathered friends from a truly hilarious angle. Chickens have a way of stealing the spotlight, and there’s nothing quite like capturing their quirky personalities in a snapshot. Whether they’re striking a pose or just being their silly selves, these feathery companions are sure to ruffle some feathers and bring a smile to your face. Join the fun and share your own chicken moments—because the best view of a chicken is always from the angle that makes you laugh the hardest! Check out the link for some egg-citing chicken antics!

Rooster or hen
chickens

Rooster or hen

Are you scratching your head over a feathered friend that’s supposed to be a rooster but looks a bit more like a shy hen? You're not alone! This delightful conundrum was shared by a fellow chicken enthusiast on Facebook Marketplace, where they picked up what the seller claimed was a rooster. However, the bird’s appearance raises more questions than answers. Identifying chickens can be as tricky as catching one in the yard! With the right clues, we can help clear up this cluck-tastic mystery. Join us as we dive into the world of chicken identification and unravel the truth about this feathered friend. Your insights and expertise could make all the difference! Let's get to the bottom of this poultry puzzle together!

Some of your chickens are already running around my chicken coop.
chickens

Some of your chickens are already running around my chicken coop.

It looks like some of your feathered friends have already made themselves at home in my chicken coop! While I can’t say all of them are here just yet—only the first 1,000 on the list have decided to stretch their wings—it's been a cluck-tastic adventure so far. I must admit, I couldn’t capture the unique looks of each chicken perfectly, so please bear with me if they don’t all match your expectations! Nonetheless, I absolutely adore that these delightful names belong to your chickens. Have you spotted any of your feathery pals among the crowd? Let’s have some fun and see how many familiar faces we can find together! I’m excited to embark on this whimsical chicken quest with you.

This chicken looks like it's been through 4 divorces and needs a cigarette
chickens

This chicken looks like it's been through 4 divorces and needs a cigarette

Meet the chicken that seems to have lived a life filled with drama—like it's been through four divorces and is now in desperate need of a cigarette! This feathered friend’s expression is a perfect blend of sass and weariness, as if it’s seen it all and is ready to spill the tea on its tumultuous past. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken lover or someone who finds these quirky creatures a bit intimidating, this chicken’s story is sure to resonate. Join the conversation and share a laugh as we explore the whimsical world of our feathered companions. Click the link to see this cluck-tastic bird and dive into the comments—who knows what hilarious tales await!

My makeshift chicken coop
chickens

My makeshift chicken coop

Welcome to the whimsical world of DIY chicken coops! Meet a creative chicken enthusiast who turned a few odds and ends into a cluck-tastic circular coop that measures 18 feet in diameter. With a clever design and minimal cost, this makeshift haven boasts four cozy laying boxes, ensuring your feathered friends have a comfy spot to lay their eggs. It’s a perfect example of how a little ingenuity can go a long way in chicken-keeping. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just chicken-curious, this project proves that you don't need a lot of resources to create a home for your flock. Join the conversation and see how you can get inspired to tackle your own coop creation! [link] [comments].

FunHenY – Chicken Comedy

🚨 WRY NECK?! We’re Treating Our Chicken LIVE 🐔 Recovery Journey

Join us for an egg-citing live adventure as we tackle the unexpected challenge of wry neck in our beloved feathered friend! 🐔 This journey promises to be both educational and humorous, showcasing the ups and downs of chicken care. With a blend of expert tips and relatable anecdotes, we’ll navigate the recovery process together, sharing insights that will resonate with both seasoned farmers and those who might just be chickening out at the thought of handling a sick bird. Expect plenty of playful banter and heartfelt moments as we reveal what it truly takes to support our quirky companions through their challenges. Tune in and let’s turn this wry neck situation into a cluck-tastic experience filled with laughter and learning!

The Happy Chicken Coop

PART 1: All About Chicken Dust Baths: Why They Do It & How to Help

Welcome to the cluck-tastic world of chicken dust baths! If you've ever watched your feathered friends roll around in the dirt, you might have wondered why they do it and how you can help enhance their spa-like experience. Dust bathing is not just a quirky chicken behavior; it's a vital part of keeping them happy and healthy. In this guide, we’ll explore the fascinating reasons behind this amusing activity and provide tips to create the perfect dust bath setup for your chickens. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or a casual chicken admirer, understanding the joys of dust baths will deepen your appreciation for these delightful creatures while ensuring their well-being. So grab your shovels and let’s dig into the fun!

Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Introducing new chickens

Introducing new chickens can be both egg-citing and a bit nerve-wracking! You've got a delightful flock with your three Polish hens, and adding two more is sure to bring some cluck-tastic energy to your coop. It’s great that you’ve set up a mini run for them to mingle without the risk of fowl play. Now, about that coop situation—putting the newbies in late while the others sleep seems like a clever plan! Just keep an eye on those nighttime dynamics; sometimes, chickens can be a bit territorial. If your existing hens are already cozying up outside, you might find the transition smoother. Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to separate them if things get too pecky! You’ve got this!

Hey guys new to owning chickens! I recently bought 5 chickens 4 hens and 1 rooster, all are 2 weeks old. What should I be doing at this age? I just transitioned them into the insulated coop with a heat lamp on, should I have a light on inside the coop for day time or just leave the coop door open?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Hey guys new to owning chickens! I recently bought 5 chickens 4 hens and 1 rooster, all are 2 weeks old. What should I be doing at this age? I just transitioned them into the insulated coop with a heat lamp on, should I have a light on inside the coop for day time or just leave the coop door open?

Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! Welcome to the wonderful world of feathered friends! It sounds like you’re off to a cluck-tastic start with your five new companions—four hens and a charming rooster. At just two weeks old, your fluffballs need a cozy space to thrive, and it sounds like your insulated coop with a heat lamp is a great choice, especially with those chilly Northern Alberta nights. As for lighting, it’s generally best to keep the coop dark during the night to promote restful sleep. During the day, you can leave the door open for fresh air, but be mindful of the temperature swings. Keep an eye on them, and enjoy the delightful journey of chicken ownership! Happy clucking!

Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Can chicks hatched in incubator several days after hen hatched eggs be raised together?

Raising chicks alongside a broody hen can be a delightful adventure, but it comes with its own set of challenges—especially when timing is a bit wobbly! In your scenario, where two chicks hatched naturally, and several more are emerging from the incubator, you might be wondering if it’s safe to introduce these new fluffballs to Mama. Given that she’s already accepted one of the chicks from the incubator, it sounds promising. Since they’re all in a secure Eglu tractor within a larger enclosure, you have a safe environment for integration. Just remember, Mama may need some time to adjust to her new feathered friends, so keep an eye on her interactions as they all settle into this cluck-tastic family dynamic!

Help! 13-day-old chick suddenly lost ability to walk overnight - trauma or something else?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Help! 13-day-old chick suddenly lost ability to walk overnight - trauma or something else?

Oh no, it sounds like your little Light Brahma chick is in quite the pickle! At just 13 days old, experiencing a sudden inability to walk can be concerning for any first-time chicken owner. The symptoms you're describing—her inability to support her weight, the slow squatting waddle, and the limp toes—could indicate a few potential issues, from trauma to nutritional deficiencies. The behavior of the larger Buff Orpington might be a clue, especially if he's been roughhousing with the others. It’s great that you’ve isolated her for now, as this can help minimize stress. Let’s explore possible causes and treatments, so you can get your feathered friend back to her cluck-tastic self!

Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Egg production severely reduced

Hey, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you're in quite the egg-citing pickle with your flock. Having eight hens that were once laying like champions, only to drop to a meager one or two eggs daily, can be frustrating. You’ve already taken steps by treating for gape worm, which is a great start, but it appears the egg production mystery remains unsolved. With your hens looking healthy, active, and well-fed on organic feed, it’s puzzling. Perhaps there’s a sneaky egg thief lurking around, or maybe environmental factors are at play. Let’s brainstorm together to get your feathered friends back to clucking out those eggs! Any insights or advice from the community would be super helpful!

Neighbor’s Backyard Chickens
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Neighbor’s Backyard Chickens

Oh, cluck me sideways! It sounds like your neighbors have turned their backyard into a bit of a bone yard—literally! Recently, they moved their chicken coop right against your property line, and during a friendly fence-side hello, you stumbled upon quite the eerie discovery: animal bones, including what looks like a small skull. Given the size, it’s got you wondering if those feathered friends are munching on some rather questionable snacks. In the charmingly quirky world of backyard chickens, what’s on the menu can be a real head-scratcher. As long as the smell doesn’t start wafting your way, maybe it’s best to keep your distance and let the fowl play unfold next door. Who knew chicken keeping could come with such a side of mystery?