chickens

Alektorophobia keeps chickens in one place: 3865 stories so far. The section currently leads with “Why Does This Roo Squeeze Behind a Crate Just to Call His Hens?”, “Twelve Hens, Zero Research, and One Very Chaotic Coop Adventure”, and “Dorli's sand-bath saga proves even chickens can't resist a stone-cold classic.”. Is your rooster pulling off some quirky antics? Throwback to Chicken Coop Build: It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since my family dove headfirst into the delightful chaos of chicken ownership! Chickens. Everything there is to know about chickens and the fear of them. The list below is every chickens story on Alektorophobia, newest first.

Why Does This Roo Squeeze Behind a Crate Just to Call His Hens?
chickens

Why Does This Roo Squeeze Behind a Crate Just to Call His Hens?

Is your rooster pulling off some quirky antics? One of our roosters, not the head honcho, seems to have a flair for the dramatic. He squeezes himself into a tiny space between a table and a crate, making some truly ungodly noises until his hens come to check on him! Sometimes he scratches and pecks at the crate, and other times he just lounges there like a fluffy loaf. What’s the deal? Is he just being a goofball to grab the hens’ attention? 🤣 If you've ever witnessed this kind of fowl play, we’d love to hear your thoughts! For more insights into rooster behavior, check out our article “Rooster Legs and Feet Getting Puffier Over Time.” Let's crack this chicken conundrum together!

Twelve Hens, Zero Research, and One Very Chaotic Coop Adventure
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Twelve Hens, Zero Research, and One Very Chaotic Coop Adventure

Throwback to Chicken Coop Build: It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since my family dove headfirst into the delightful chaos of chicken ownership! With 12 adorable hens and no clue what we were getting into, we quickly learned that garage life wasn’t suited for our feathered friends. Armed with a YouTube tutorial and a sprinkle of enthusiasm, we crafted our very own coop, and now we’re reaping the rewards with 8 cartons of eggs! Watching my kids bond with our chickens has been priceless, turning our homeschooling sessions into egg-citing lessons about where food comes from. Plus, we recently welcomed 6 baby chicks and have plans for meat rabbits soon!

Dorli's sand-bath saga proves even chickens can't resist a stone-cold classic.
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Dorli's sand-bath saga proves even chickens can't resist a stone-cold classic.

Meet Dorli, the chicken who’s taken the art of relaxation to a whole new level—sand bathing on stone slabs! You might think she’s just being quirky, but really, she’s the ringleader of this feathery escapade, with Fini following her lead like a devoted sidekick. It’s a sight to behold! While they do have perfectly good sand baths scattered around the garden, there’s something about those stone slabs that keeps Dorli coming back for more. And let’s not forget her penchant for scratching those plates, always on the lookout for a tasty snack! With four rescue chickens, it’s fascinating to see how their personalities shine—especially when one of them is, shall we say, not exactly top of the class.

Sky-Devil Dinner Party: Who's Feasting on My Flock by Daylight?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Sky-Devil Dinner Party: Who's Feasting on My Flock by Daylight?

Summer can be a cluck-tastrophe for chicken keepers, especially when predators start making off with our beloved feathered friends. Recent losses of three guinea hens and four chickens have left many of us scratching our heads—and perhaps a bit feathers ruffled! With birds free-ranging all day and tucked away safely at night, it’s perplexing when we find only a trail of feathers and no signs of our missing flock. The mystery deepens when we consider the timing: something snatched a massive Brahma, an Americana, a black Australorp, and a guinea during the evening hours. If you're in Southern Minnesota and have experienced similar feathered disappearances, let's unravel this mystery together.

Cluck-tastic cuteness alert: these feathered friends are egg-stra adorable.
chickens

Cluck-tastic cuteness alert: these feathered friends are egg-stra adorable.

Get ready to cluck with joy over the adorable world of cute chickens, submitted by **/u/melik2dignocraft**! Chickens aren’t just for the farm; they can be delightful companions, each with its own quirky personality that will surely warm your heart. Whether they're strutting around like they own the place or comically flapping their wings, these feathered friends bring a unique charm to any backyard. If you’re curious about the delightful dynamics of chicken care, check out our article “New Roo, needs a name,” where a new rooster is on the hunt for his perfect moniker after a tough loss. Join in the fun, share your stories, and let’s celebrate the cluck-tastic moments that make chicken-keeping an egg-citing adventure!

chickens

My Nesting Box Rebellion: When Hens Choose Fowl Play

So, you’ve got some new pullets who seem to have a serious case of the “not nesting blues”! After a heartbreaking loss of your original flock, it’s understandable to want to get these girls laying in the right spot—those cozy nesting boxes. You’ve got the setup with straw and decoy eggs, but your feathered friends have taken to the roosting bars instead. Fear not! It’s time to entice them back to their designated laying area. Try adding some tasty treats to the nesting boxes as a reward for exploration. This playful coaxing can encourage them to see the boxes as a cozy retreat rather than just a passing perch.

chickens

Meet the Shoulder Chicken: Totally Normal or Fowl Play?

Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! Have you ever had a feathered friend decide that your shoulder is the perfect perch? One of our chicks has taken quite a liking to my shoulder and back, swooping in for a cozy spot whenever we let the girls out of the brooder. It’s a bit quirky, and I’m left wondering— is this normal chicken behavior? I mean, she seems to have a special bond with me, as my boyfriend hasn’t experienced this attention at all! If you’ve encountered a similar situation with your chicks, I’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’re curious about how to tuck your chicks in for bed, check out "Runaround Sue tucks the chicks in for bed" for more fun insights!

Why Is My Hen Walking Low When Nothing Else Is Wrong?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Why Is My Hen Walking Low When Nothing Else Is Wrong?

Hey there, fellow chicken lovers! 🐔 It sounds like you’re in quite the cluck-tastrophe with your hen’s mysterious condition. Walking with her back end low can be puzzling, especially when she seems to get along just fine otherwise. It’s a relief that your other feathered friends are healthy, which rules out contagion. While heart failure might have crossed your mind, there could be other explanations worth exploring. Have you checked for any signs of injury or discomfort? Sometimes, the quirkiest behaviors can have simple solutions. If you're looking for more insights, you might find our article, “😔 sigh… you already know what I’m about to ask,” helpful in navigating similar chicken conundrums. Let’s crack this case together! 🥚✨

Midnight Majesty? More Like Midnight Rooster: Feathers Don't Lie
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Midnight Majesty? More Like Midnight Rooster: Feathers Don't Lie

Welcome to the curious case of the supposedly midnight majesty! When you first got this little feathered friend, you likely envisioned a stunning hybrid of Black Copper Marans and Barred Rocks. However, the unfolding drama of comb development, saddle feathers, and some rather dominant behavior suggests that you might be dealing with a rooster rather than a hen. Is it true that roosters sport the classic barred plumage for this breed? Or could your bird be an entirely different mix? With chickens, surprises are always just a cluck away! If you’re looking for more chicken-related chuckles, check out our article “Chilling,” where we dive into the quirky antics of these feathered companions. Let’s unravel this mystery together!

Eleven weeks of pure, peck-able fluff and fowl play!
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Eleven weeks of pure, peck-able fluff and fowl play!

Meet the fluffiest member of the flock at just 11 weeks old! Submitted by /u/Mothmans_, this adorable chick is already brimming with personality and charm. It’s amazing how much fluff can fit into such a tiny package, making us all wonder just how big this little feathered friend will get. Chickens can be a delightful mix of hilarity and chaos, and it seems our friend here is well on its way to becoming a star in the coop. If you’re curious about what treats might delight your own feathery companions, check out “Got any treats” for some fun ideas to keep those fluffy friends happy! Join the conversation and share your own experiences with these quirky creatures!

Puffy rooster feet got you clucking for answers?
chickens

Puffy rooster feet got you clucking for answers?

Hey there, fellow chicken lovers! It sounds like your four-year-old rooster is experiencing a bit of a foot transformation—those puffier legs can certainly raise some questions. While you’re right to consider bumblefoot, which can cause swelling, it’s also possible that this is just a natural part of aging for our feathered friends. Roosters can develop thicker legs over time, especially if they’ve been strutting their stuff and getting into some fowl play! If there are no signs of scaly mites or other obvious issues, it might just be his unique style. For more insights on chicken growth, check out “A week difference! They grow so fast :))” to see how quickly our little ones can change!

FunHenY – Chicken Comedy

The Feathery Face-Off You Never Knew You Needed

Welcome to the ultimate showdown: Chicken vs. Wolf Spider! In this cluck-tastic face-off, we delve into the quirky dynamics between our beloved feathered friends and the eight-legged critters that sometimes send shivers down our spines. Chickens, with their curious pecking and delightful clucks, often find themselves in humorous predicaments, while wolf spiders, with their swift movements and impressive hunting skills, bring a touch of wild drama to the backyard. Do chickens stand a chance against these arachnid adversaries? Or will they chicken out in the face of such creepy competition? Join us as we explore the amusing interplay between these two unlikely contenders. And if you're curious about egg-related dilemmas, don't miss our article, "More eggs 🪺 should I keep them or give them away."

Happy Hurdles: When New Chicks Have Runny Poop But Act Fine
chickens

Happy Hurdles: When New Chicks Have Runny Poop But Act Fine

Uh-oh, it looks like your new chicks might be dealing with a bit of a tummy trouble! Just two days in their new home and you’ve noticed some watery droppings, but they seem to be chirping happily and exploring their brooder like curious little explorers. It's great to hear they have clean food, water, and bedding, plus a nice shady spot to escape the heat! Diarrhea in chicks can sometimes be a sign of stress from their recent move, and the lighter, more watery droppings you mentioned are a promising sign of improvement. For more insights on chick behavior and health, check out our article "Teaching my rooster public humiliation because he pecked me" for some valuable tips.

Valerie's feather-saving fashion hack that's got the whole flock clucking.
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Valerie's feather-saving fashion hack that's got the whole flock clucking.

When it comes to chicken couture, nothing says "fashion-forward" quite like a chicken saddle! My Ameraucana, Valerie, was facing a bit of a pecking problem from her fellow hens, but I found the perfect solution: an adorable saddle that not only protects her feathers and skin but also gives her a fabulous new look! Now, Valerie struts around the coop in style, and her feathery friends are too bewildered by her chic ensemble to even think about pecking her. Talk about solving two problems with one fashionable accessory! If you're curious about the colorful egg haul from our flock, check out “Today’s egg haul from the flock 🥚🌈” for more cluck-tastic insights!

Silkie Sexing Shenanigans: Let's Crack This Feathered Mystery
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Silkie Sexing Shenanigans: Let's Crack This Feathered Mystery

Are you scratching your head over whether you've got a pullet or a cockerel on your hands? Fear not, chicken enthusiasts! We’re here to help you decode the feathered mysteries of your flock. In this delightful photo lineup, you’ve already pegged one of your older BCM as a roo, and we can definitely lend a hand with the rest. From the grey beauty you’re sure is a pullet to the rest of the gang, we’ll help you identify their delightful roles in your chicken drama. And if you're curious about other chicken health concerns, check out our article “New chicks with diarrhea” for some cluck-worthy advice. Let’s dive in and get to the bottom of this feathered puzzle together!

Cluck-tastic rescue mission: What to do when a baby chicken picks you?
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Cluck-tastic rescue mission: What to do when a baby chicken picks you?

Oh no—what a cluck-tastic surprise you’ve stumbled upon! Finding a baby chicken can feel like winning the lottery of feathered friends, but it’s also a bit of a head-scratcher, especially with two dogs in tow. Your instincts are spot on; getting help is the best first step. A vet can offer valuable advice or check if your new little buddy needs any special care. While returning them to where you found them might not be the safest option, don’t worry—you're not alone in this. Many chicken enthusiasts have faced similar dilemmas! For some entertaining insight, check out "Tess the Terrorist," where another chicken story unfolds. Let’s dive into what you can do next to keep your little one safe and sound!

Bare Necessities: Why My Biggest Hen Is Going Bald Down Under
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Bare Necessities: Why My Biggest Hen Is Going Bald Down Under

Evening everyone! I’m reaching out because one of my feathered friends is experiencing an unusual case of balding on her underside, and I’m scratching my head over it. She's about 18 months old, the largest of my three hens, and a hybrid breed. Despite my efforts, I haven’t spotted any mites or lice, and there’s no funky smell to report. She’s laying eggs regularly, though I've noticed an uptick in soft-shelled ones recently. The other hens aren’t giving her a hard time, and her appetite remains strong. However, I have seen some dirty feathers around her vent and a slight change in her droppings, possibly due to the current heatwave here in the UK. Any thoughts or insights would be greatly appreciated!

Cluck-tastic! My midnight-built coop is finally done.
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Cluck-tastic! My midnight-built coop is finally done.

After two summers and a spring of hard work, I’m over the moon to announce that my cordwood chicken coop—affectionately dubbed Cluckingham Palace—is finally complete! This project was born during a tumultuous time in my life, and it provided a much-needed focus, especially during those sleepless nights. The coop features a unique roundhouse design, boasting heavy timber framing and stunning cordwood masonry made from split cedar. Natural light floods in through large windows and whimsical glass bottle ends, creating an enchanting atmosphere for my feathered friends. Now, I’m excited to prepare for chicken move-in day! If you’re curious about the build process, check out my full journey [here](https://imgur.com/gallery/i7N95xB). Plus, if you’re dealing with chicken health issues, don’t miss our article on "Help! Underside balding."

Hen-determined or Hen-tirely Too Soon? A 6-Week Feathered Gamble
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Hen-determined or Hen-tirely Too Soon? A 6-Week Feathered Gamble

Are you pondering whether to find a new home for your feathered friends or hold out hope that they might just be hens? At 6 to 7 weeks old, your Orpington and Moss Egger are at a pivotal stage in their development. While roosters can start crowing as early as 8 weeks, there’s still a chance that both could be the egg-citing hens you’re dreaming of! It’s a nail-biting wait, but remember—many factors play into their gender development. If you’re feeling a bit lost, check out our article "Tips if you get chicks, don’t blink" for insights on raising your chicks and what signs to look for as they grow. Whatever you decide, remember: it’s all part of the cluck-tastic journey of chicken parenthood!

Blink and She'll Grow: A Cochin Bantam's Feathered Fast-Forward
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Blink and She'll Grow: A Cochin Bantam's Feathered Fast-Forward

If you’re thinking about welcoming some adorable chicks into your life, hold onto your hats—these little feathered friends grow faster than you can say “cluck-tastic!” Just last week, my 4-month-old Cochin Bantam fit snugly in the palm of my hand, and now she’s strutting around like she owns the coop. Caring for chicks can be both egg-citing and a tad overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the world of poultry. But fear not! We’re here to share some tips that will help you navigate the delightful chaos of chick-rearing. And if you're curious about a chicken's health, check out our article on "Help! Underside balding" for insights on common concerns. Get ready for an adventure filled with laughter and maybe a little fowl play!

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Coyote Snacks or Feathered Heroes? A Real-Life Fowl Play Tale

Gather 'round, chicken lovers! I’ve got a cluck-tastic—and slightly gut-wrenching—tale to share about my feathered friends and a surprise visit from Mr. Coyote. With a small flock of 10 free-ranging chickens on my wooded property, I’ve learned to navigate the joys and challenges of chicken-keeping. Unfortunately, that includes the occasional fowl play from predators. Recently, a lone coyote made its way onto my property while my loyal LGD dogs were preoccupied. Two hens were injured, and my brave rooster went missing. But one determined hen refused to give up! With a little DIY veterinary care, she’s not just surviving but thriving. If you want to dive deeper into chicken resilience, check out our article on "Roosters' legs and feet getting puffier over time."

Krissy’s Chickens

My feathered friends have a full-time job in my business.

Oh, my cluck-tastic feathered friends are the nosiest little creatures you could ever imagine! 🐔🤣 They’re always pecking around, curious about every little thing happening in the backyard. Whether it’s a rustling in the bushes or a new treat spot, you can bet they’ll be right there, investigating with their beady eyes and cheeky clucks. It’s like having a flock of mini detectives on the homestead—always on the lookout for the next adventure (or snack). If you think your chickens are inquisitive, wait until you see mine in action! For more about their hilarious antics, don’t miss our article “You never know when the new treat spot could be a trap,” where I dive into their playful personalities. Join the fun!

Treats? For These Feathered Friends? Cluck Yeah, Hand Them Over!
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Treats? For These Feathered Friends? Cluck Yeah, Hand Them Over!

Got any treats? This delightful query from /u/iamloubielou sparks a feathered frenzy of fun! Whether you’re looking to spoil your clucking companions or just curious about what tasty morsels they might enjoy, you’ve landed in the right coop! Treats can be a fantastic way to bond with your feathered friends and keep them clucking with joy. From garden goodies to store-bought delights, there’s a whole world of egg-citing options to explore. Speaking of treats, if you’re dealing with a chicken health hiccup, you might find our article "When it’s not sour crop" particularly helpful for those moments when your bird isn’t feeling its best. Let’s dive into the delicious details and get those chickens clucking for joy!

Roof Roulette: A Chicken Newbie's Coop Conundrum
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Roof Roulette: A Chicken Newbie's Coop Conundrum

Got the chicken-keeping bug but feeling a bit clucky about your roofing skills? It sounds like you're embarking on a feathered adventure, but now you’re left wondering how to cover that 19x15 space for your soon-to-be feathered friends! While chicken wire might seem like a quick fix, it’s not the best option for winter weather in Illinois, especially with snow piling up. You’ll want something sturdier to protect your chickens from the elements. Consider using plywood or metal sheeting for a solid roof that keeps them cozy and safe. For tips on integrating your new chickens and ensuring they settle in smoothly, check out our article "Integrating chicks part 2." Let’s get those chickens clucking in their new home!