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.

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

Treat time

It’s treat time for our feathered friends, and what’s on the menu? Leftover fried rice and canned vegetables! It’s funny how the girls completely ignored the chicken scratch my little one eagerly brought them. Instead, they devoured every last morsel of rice as if it were the most luxurious feast imaginable. Who knew that a bowl of fried rice could outshine their beloved scratch? Chickens can be such picky eaters, but when it comes to a tasty surprise, they sure know how to prioritize! This little mealtime adventure not only tickled our funny bones but also sparked a delightful moment of connection between my child and our quirky flock. Treat time is always egg-citing in our coop, and the laughter it brings is priceless!

Lap Chicken. 🥹❤️🥰
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Lap Chicken. 🥹❤️🥰

Oh, the joys of lap chickens! 🥹❤️🥰 Today, my sweet girl Goat decided it was the perfect moment to snuggle up in my lap, purring with happiness as I gently pet her. This adorable behavior is a first, and I can’t help but gush over how precious she is! And for those who might raise an eyebrow at that quirky triangle piece of decor in the background, let me assure you it’s a $6 thrift store gem, strategically placed to offer my older girls a cozy spot away from the newer flock. No judgment here, right? 🤣❤️🐔 It’s moments like these that remind us why we love our feathered friends so much! Share your lap chicken stories; I’d love to hear them!

I swore I wasn’t going to ask, but…
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

I swore I wasn’t going to ask, but…

I swore I wasn’t going to ask, but here we are—Hen or roo? In the first photo, we have two Delawares looking fabulous at six and a half weeks old. The difference in their combs has me scratching my head and leaning towards one being a rooster. Then we have the second photo featuring a pearl onyx hen, also the same age, who struts around the coop like she owns the place. This assertive feathered friend is not just the biggest but also the most confident of the bunch. So, what’s the verdict? Is my comb comparison on point, or am I just clucking up a storm? Let’s crack this mystery together, chicken lovers! [link] [comments].

Any way to prevent brooding?
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Any way to prevent brooding?

Got a broody bantam Cochin named Duckie who’s taken the art of nesting to a whole new level? You're not alone! This breed is notorious for brooding, which can feel like a full-time job for chicken keepers. When Duckie goes broody, it not only disrupts her egg-laying rhythm but also affects the whole flock’s production. If you’re hoping to keep those eggs rolling in, finding ways to curb her broody tendencies can be a real game-changer. From environmental adjustments to clever distractions, there are several strategies you can try to keep Duckie from clucking her way into another broody binge. Let’s explore some egg-citing solutions to help your feathered friend stay in the laying game!

Mixed Flock! Tell me everything!
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Mixed Flock! Tell me everything!

Are you ready for a cluck-tastic adventure with a mixed flock? We’re diving into the delightful world of colorful eggs and unique personalities! Currently, our feathered family includes 2 Barred Rocks, 2 Olive Eggers, 2 Orpingtons, 2 Azures, and 3 Brahmas. The Barred Rocks, Olive Eggers, and Azures are coming as adorable one-day-old sexed chicks from a local hatchery, while our Brahmas will be hatching from a friend’s incubator. We plan to free-range our flock, and we’re hoping for a Brahma rooster to help keep the crew safe. If not, we’ll scoop up an Orpington cockerel! Do you have a similar flock? Share your experiences and tips—let’s cluck about it!

Hens comb is turning purple
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Hens comb is turning purple

Oh no, it sounds like your mother’s hen is having a rough time! A purple comb can be a sign of several issues, especially when combined with lethargy, lack of appetite, and infrequent pooping. It’s great that you've already separated her and provided electrolytes, as hydration is crucial in these situations. Stress, illness, or even a nutritional deficiency could be at play here, so it’s vital to monitor her closely. While a stuck egg is a common concern, it’s reassuring that you’ve already soaked her to help relieve that. Keep an eye on her symptoms, and consider reaching out to a vet if she doesn’t perk up soon. Let’s rally together as a community to get your feathered friend clucking away again!

Here's your sign to give your chickens a bed
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Here's your sign to give your chickens a bed

Here’s your sign to pamper your chickens with a cozy bed! I’ve discovered that my feathered friends absolutely adore lounging on a cat bed I keep outside. Stripes, my favorite chicken, has claimed it as her throne, and it’s a sight to behold! While they don’t lay eggs there, they sure appreciate a comfy spot to relax. I even tried an old pillow stuffed in a lemonade feed bag for an alternative, which they use but don’t love as much. The best part? It’s easy to clean! Plus, for a fun activity, fill an empty soda bottle with grain and let them peck away, or use cute treat-dispensing balls. Chickens deserve a little luxury, don’t you think?

Chickens love a water fountain
Raising Chickens or Other Poultry for Eggs, Meat, or as Pets

Chickens love a water fountain

Chickens love a water fountain, and who can blame them? These quirky feathered friends are not just about clucking and scratching; they enjoy a refreshing splash as much as the next critter! Imagine a sunny day, with your chickens joyfully flapping their wings around a sparkling water fountain, creating a cluck-tastic scene that’s both entertaining and heartwarming. Not only does a water fountain provide a reliable source of hydration, but it also adds an element of fun to their environment! Plus, watching them interact with the water can be a delightful reminder of the joy that comes with caring for these charming creatures. So, let’s dive into the reasons why your flock will thrive with a water fountain in their coop!

chickens

Please tell me everything about letting a broody chicken raise day old chicks

Letting a broody chicken raise day-old chicks can be a delightful experience, especially with a sweet hen like Lucy! As a first-time chicken owner, you’re right to consider her nurturing nature and the dynamics of your flock. With a cozy 9x18 foot run and a separate coop ready for Lucy, you’re well-prepared for this adventure. Moving her to the new section a few days before the chicks arrive is a smart strategy, allowing her to settle in and get comfortable. Sneaking the chicks under her at night is a classic trick that often works well. While integrating them with the other chickens may present challenges, remember that Lucy’s gentle demeanor will shine through as she guides her new feathered friends.

What came first? Chicken or Egg? Photo by me
chickens

What came first? Chicken or Egg? Photo by me

Ah, the age-old question: what came first, the chicken or the egg? This delightful conundrum has puzzled minds for centuries, sparking debates and whimsical conversations alike. In a world where chickens strut their stuff with both charm and a hint of mischief, it’s easy to get lost in the feathered frenzy. This photo, captured by the talented /u/Perfect_Carrot_999 with a Canon EOS Rebel T3 at a lively festival in Florence, Italy, perfectly encapsulates the whimsical nature of our feathered friends. As we ponder this cluck-tastic question, let’s celebrate the joy and hilarity that chickens bring to our lives. So, which came first? Grab your popcorn (or should we say corn?) and let’s dive into the delightful debate!

My Sapphire Sky pullets from TS
chickens

My Sapphire Sky pullets from TS

Meet my newest feathered friends from Tractor Supply, the Sapphire Sky pullets! I bought a delightful batch of nine, but surprise—five of them turned out to be roosters! It seems my keen eye for chicken breeds was a bit off, as I suspect they’re all Barred Rocks. Lesson learned, right? You’d think I’d know better than to trust the random bin at the store, but the excitement of picking out pullets can make anyone a little clucky! Join me on this whimsical journey of chicken keeping as I navigate the ups and downs of poultry parenting. Let’s share our wild chicken tales and maybe even laugh about my latest fowl play! What’s your take on this rooster-riddled adventure? [link] [comments]

Breed?
chickens

Breed?

When it comes to the whimsical world of chickens, some breeds really know how to strut their stuff—feathered feet and all! In this delightful post by u/Loveinhooves, we dive into the charming quirks of a chicken with not just feathered feet, but feathered knees too! These quirky features can bring joy and a touch of madness to any flock. Join us as we explore the fascinating traits that make this breed stand out in the chicken community. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just someone who's ever chickened out at the sight of a feathered friend, this post promises to entertain and educate. So, grab your favorite cup of coffee and get ready for some cluck-tastic insights! [link] [comments]

Brahma Chicken
chickens

Brahma Chicken

Prepare for a cluck-tastic encounter as we dive into the world of the Brahma chicken—known for its impressively hairy feet and gentle demeanor. Imagine Ali G's bemusement upon spotting these feathered friends strutting around with their unique, fluffy leg adornments. The Brahma, often referred to as the "King of Chickens," not only boasts a regal presence but also a heartwarming personality that makes them beloved among chicken enthusiasts. With their large size and calm nature, they embody both whimsy and charm, inviting laughter and curiosity. Join us as we explore this egg-citing breed and uncover why Brahmas are more than just a pretty pair of feet; they’re a delightful addition to any flock. Don’t miss out on the fun!

chickens

Wing injury?

Uh-oh, it sounds like one of your feathered friends might be having a little wing drama! If she's moving her wing in a peculiar way, it’s natural to worry, especially since she’s acting normal otherwise. Chickens are surprisingly resilient, but they can also be quite the drama queens when it comes to minor injuries. Since you didn’t find anything amiss during your inspection, it might be a case of her just being a bit clumsy or experiencing a temporary strain. Keeping an eye on her behavior is key. If she continues to act strangely or shows signs of discomfort, consulting a vet might be in order. Let’s hope she’s back to her cluck-tastic self in no time!

Roosters?
chickens

Roosters?

Are you clucking curious about the gender of your five-week-old chicks? You're not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves scratching their heads when trying to determine whether their feathered friends are roosters or hens. At this young age, it can be a bit tricky, but there are some clues to look for. Male chicks often display certain behaviors and physical traits that can help you identify them. From comb development to vocalizations, these little guys have their own unique ways of showing their true colors. Join the discussion and share your observations—let’s see if we can help each other unravel the mystery of these charming, yet sometimes perplexing, chicks! Your insights and questions are more than welcome!

Can anyone identify this rooster? He has a double comb but looks like a cream legbar.. could be a mix idk?
chickens

Can anyone identify this rooster? He has a double comb but looks like a cream legbar.. could be a mix idk?

Attention, chicken enthusiasts! We’ve got a cluck-tastic mystery on our hands, and we need your help. Submitted by the curious /u/MMantisshrimpp, this charming rooster sports a double comb and a delightful appearance reminiscent of a cream legbar. But is he truly a cream legbar, or is there a bit of fowl play in his lineage? Mixing breeds can lead to some egg-citing surprises, and this handsome fellow is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or a casual chicken admirer, your insights could help unravel this feathered conundrum. Join the conversation and share your thoughts—let’s work together to identify this unique rooster and celebrate the whimsical world of our feathered friends! [link] [comments]

Interesting morning in the chicken coop
chickens

Interesting morning in the chicken coop

This morning in the chicken coop was anything but ordinary! As I went about my usual routine with my feathered friends, I stumbled upon a shocking sight: a bloody egg nestled among the hay. To add to the mystery, I discovered a rust-free knife lying nearby—one I had never seen before. Talk about a fowl twist! The two incidents seem completely unrelated, yet the combination felt unsettling, like a scene straight out of a poultry-themed mystery novel. What could have happened? Did one of my chickens have a secret rendezvous that went awry? Join me as we delve into this cluck-tastic conundrum and unravel the strange happenings in the coop. After all, life with chickens is never boring!

Gender Identifying
chickens

Gender Identifying

Hey, chicken aficionados! So, it looks like our friend Dirk Striders is on a cluck-tastic adventure—taking home some feathered friends at the end of the week! While he’s confidently identified the yellow one as a cockerel and the brown one as a hen, he’s scratching his head over the white chicken in the middle. Gender identifying can be quite the puzzle, even for seasoned chicken lovers! If you’ve got tips or tricks up your sleeve for determining the gender of chickens, now’s the perfect time to share your wisdom. Let’s rally together and help Dirk solve this fowl mystery. Your insights could turn this chicken conundrum into an egg-citing learning experience for everyone involved! 🐔✨

back when my hens were little babies
chickens

back when my hens were little babies

Back when my hens were little fluffballs, they would scramble up to me, pecking playfully as if I were their personal jungle gym. Fast forward a year, and it’s a completely different story. Now, the moment I take even the tiniest step in their direction, they transform into drama queens, running away as if I’m chasing them with a giant corn cob! 🙄 The star of this poultry performance? My speckled diva, “Diamond.” She doesn’t just run; she screams like she’s auditioning for a soap opera! 😭 It’s hilarious how the tables have turned from adorable chick antics to full-blown chicken theatrics. Who knew raising hens could be such a rollercoaster of emotions? Let’s just say, it’s never a dull moment with my feathered friends!

Assorted English Orpingtons what did i get?
chickens

Assorted English Orpingtons what did i get?

Welcome to the delightful world of Assorted English Orpingtons! If you've stumbled upon a bin labeled "English Orpington Assortment," you're in for a cluck-tastic surprise. Among your feathered friends, you’ve correctly identified a buff Orpington, known for its friendly demeanor and beautiful golden plumage. The dark one might just be a Jubilee, a striking variety celebrated for its unique coloring. As for the other two, they could be a mix of different Orpington shades, each with its own charming personality. The joy of raising chickens is often in the mystery they bring, so embrace the adventure of figuring out who’s who in your flock. Let the chicken guessing games begin!

help with scissor beak + one eye chick
chickens

help with scissor beak + one eye chick

Meet your new feathered friend, the resilient chick with scissor beak and only one eye! It’s inspiring to see her thriving despite these challenges, and you’re already on the right track by providing her with a deep dish for easier feeding. Scissor beak can make eating a bit tricky, but with your continued support, she can enjoy a happy, healthy life. As she grows, there are a few things to keep in mind, like regular beak trimming and monitoring her diet to ensure she gets all the nutrients she needs. Remember, she may need some extra TLC, but with your care and attention, this little warrior can flourish among her flock! Any tips or experiences shared would be greatly appreciated!

Who is my feathery visitor?
chickens

Who is my feathery visitor?

Have you ever had a feathery visitor who just won’t quit? For the past week, one bold lady has been prowling around my yard, and she seems to be a gamefowl rather than your average egg-laying chicken. Living in a somewhat rural area where about a third of my neighbors keep chickens, I'm left wondering: what could possibly drive a chicken to abandon its flock and go rogue? My yard must look like a buffet to her, but I can't quite figure out her motives for these solo snack runs. If you have any insights or theories about this curious chicken behavior, I’d love to hear them! Let's crack this mystery together!

Little white hen oil painting
chickens

Little white hen oil painting

Prepare to be enchanted by this delightful oil painting of a little white hen, submitted by the talented u/Artsykate. This charming artwork captures the essence of our feathered friends with a playful twist, inviting viewers into the whimsical world of chickens. The soft brush strokes and vibrant colors bring the hen to life, making it almost as if she might just cluck at you any moment! This piece not only showcases the beauty of chickens but also reflects the love-hate relationship many of us have with these quirky creatures. So, whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who finds humor in their antics, this painting is sure to evoke a smile and perhaps even a chuckle. Check it out and join the conversation!

Long tail rooster! Guess the breed?
chickens

Long tail rooster! Guess the breed?

Get ready for a cluck-tastic challenge! Today, we’re diving into the intriguing world of long tail roosters. These feathered friends are not just eye-catching with their magnificent plumage; they also carry a rich history and unique traits that make them stand out in the chicken community. Whether you're a seasoned poultry pro or just someone who finds chickens egg-citingly fascinating, this is your chance to test your knowledge. Can you guess the breed of this stunning long tail rooster submitted by the one and only /u/Aamirsi278? Join the fun in the comments, share your thoughts, and let’s see who can crow about their chicken expertise! The answer might just ruffle some feathers, so don’t chicken out!