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.
Mites biting humans?
Have you ever felt a mysterious bite after spending time with your feathered friends? You're not alone! A fellow chicken enthusiast, /u/AdDistinct7807, has raised a cluck-tastic question about the pesky little critters that might be causing discomfort after interacting with chickens. Despite a thorough coop cleaning and a spritz of permethrin chicken spray, they’re still curious about the possibility of mites making a meal out of humans. While these tiny creatures are notorious for wreaking havoc in chicken coops, it’s essential to identify whether they’re the culprits behind those unwelcome bites. Join the conversation as we explore the potential for fowl play and share tips on how to keep both you and your chickens comfortable and bite-free!
Found a rooster in my driveway yesterday
Yesterday, I found a rooster in my driveway, and the little guy has turned my world upside down! After posting on a local forum and getting no takers, I had to think on my feet. Thanks to some helpful redditors, he enjoyed a cozy car slumber party while I crafted a temporary home with a burn barrel and warm leaves. However, living near the woods has me clucking with worry about predators! I called local rescues and bird sanctuaries, but it seems chickens aren’t high on the priority list. Today, I’m off to the vet for some antibiotics to treat his pesky infection. I’m looking for long-term solutions since I don’t have a suitable setup for him. Any cluck-tastic ideas?
can i separate my chicks if they’re growing at different paces?
Are you wondering if you can separate your chicks when they’re growing at different paces? You’re not alone! With seven chicks born in mid-March and two silkies arriving a week later, it can be a cluck-tastic challenge to manage their differing growth rates. If your larger chicks are starting to step on the fluffier ones during water changes or treat time, it’s understandable to be concerned about their comfort. While some folks advise against separation for fear of future squabbles, others suggest moving fully feathered chicks to an outside coop. The good news? There are options! Let’s explore the best strategies to keep your feathered friends happy and safe without cramping their style. Ready to dive into some egg-citing solutions?
My flock was murdered last night.
Oh no, what a heartbreaking experience! Losing your flock is devastating, and it's completely understandable to feel upset, especially as a first-time chicken owner. It sounds like that sneaky intruder had a plan, bending your chicken wire to make its way in. Don’t be too hard on yourself—it’s a learning curve that many of us have faced at some point. Securing the wire properly is essential for preventing future visits from unwelcome guests. One effective method is to bury the bottom of the wire at least 6 to 12 inches deep, or you can use landscape staples to anchor it firmly to the ground. Remember, you're not alone in this—reach out to fellow chicken enthusiasts for support and advice during this tough time.
Do all Easter Eggers look like giraffe chickens?
Have you ever looked at an Easter Egger and thought, “Is that a chicken or a giraffe in disguise?” Well, you're not alone! With their unique feather patterns and quirky necks, these feathered friends can certainly give off a tall-tale vibe. In this delightful discussion submitted by u/WagWoofLove, we dive into the whimsical world of Easter Eggers and explore why some might see them as the giraffes of the chicken coop. Are their elongated necks just an illusion, or do they truly possess a regal stature? Join us as we share some cluck-tastic insights and laughs, all while appreciating the charming oddities that make these chickens so egg-citing! Let’s unravel the mystery together!
Best 5 bucks I’ve ever spent
Meet Van Gogh, the ultimate feathered hero and the best five bucks I've ever spent! I adopted him from a rescue a few years ago, and he's always been a good roo. But last night, he truly proved his worth. We've been dealing with a pesky fox that burrowed into our coop, putting our 14 ducks and 10 chickens at risk. While it did claim one chicken, Van Gogh stood his ground and fought valiantly to protect his flock. He emerged with a few scratches and some missing feathers, but his bravery shines through. My husband aptly calls him “Van ‘let’s f**king’ Gogh,” and I couldn’t agree more—12/10 for this courageous clucker! A true champion of the coop!
The abandoned chicken church in Indonesia
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Indonesia, the abandoned chicken church stands as a whimsical monument to creativity and quirkiness. Originally envisioned as a place of worship, its design resembles a giant chicken—a symbol that reflects both the country’s vibrant culture and an eccentric architectural choice. This unique structure, often referred to as the "Chicken Church," invites curiosity and intrigue from locals and travelers alike. While it may no longer serve its intended purpose, the church has become a fascinating backdrop for photos and stories, drawing attention to the playful spirit of the community. With its towering wings and peculiar charm, the abandoned chicken church is a delightful reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected places can hold the greatest allure.
How can I get rid of excessive aggression?
Is your black rooster turning your garden into a battleground? Fear not, fellow chicken enthusiast! Dealing with aggression in roosters can be quite the feather-ruffling experience, especially when your feathered friends are squawking more than they should. Whether your black rooster is chasing after your gugulu rooster like it’s a game of tag or just asserting his dominance over your spacious garden, there are strategies to help calm his fiery temperament. In this guide, we’ll explore some cluck-tastic tips and tricks to manage aggressive behavior, ensuring peace among your flock while keeping your garden a harmonious haven. Let’s work together to restore tranquility and make your garden a safe space for all your feathered friends!
Losing my war with the rodents
Oh no, the battle against those pesky rodents is a cluck-tastrophe! With 16 chickens and a dirt floor coop, it sounds like you're in quite the pickle—especially after that dramatic encounter with a dozen mice scurrying up your leg! While your plans for a new coop with a concrete pad sound egg-citing, it’s important to tackle the current rodent situation before it gets even messier. Since traditional traps and poisons are off the table for the safety of your feathered friends, let’s brainstorm some creative and safe solutions. From rodent-proof feeders to clever deterrents, there are ways to protect your precious feed and water. Let’s rally together and find a way to reclaim your coop from the furry invaders!
I woke up to a trans chicken
This morning, I was tending to my chores when I heard an unusual crow that didn’t belong to either of my roosters. To my surprise, it was one of my hens! I’ve heard of hens transitioning, but I’m curious about the implications for my flock. Should I separate her from my other roosters? Right now, I have two pens: one for my larger rooster, Sunny, and another for my bantam. My newly crowing hen, now dubbed Cloudy, is five years old and has been laying eggs until this unexpected change. With such a size difference between Cloudy and Sunny, I’m concerned about potential conflicts. Does anyone have advice on managing this quirky situation? Your insights would be greatly appreciated!
Chicken loosing feathers
Hey fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like your black sex link is having a bit of a feather crisis—poor girl! When it comes to missing feathers, especially in such a noticeable saddle area, there are a few things to consider. While molting is a common reason for feather loss, it’s concerning that she hasn’t regrown them after a month. Since you mentioned there’s been no fighting among the hens, we can rule out pecking as a culprit. Factors like diet, stress, or even parasites could be at play here. Let’s dive into the quirky world of feathered friends and brainstorm some egg-citing solutions to help your girl bounce back and fluff up those feathers! Your chicken community is here for you!
Lo encontré como saber si es hembra o macho
¿Te has preguntado cómo distinguir entre un gallo y una gallina? ¡No te cluck-te! En este divertido y educativo artículo, exploramos los signos más claros que te ayudarán a identificar el sexo de tus queridos amigos emplumados. Desde la coloración del plumaje hasta la estructura de sus crestas, cada detalle cuenta en esta emocionante búsqueda de conocimiento avícola. Además, abordaremos algunas curiosidades y consejos prácticos para aquellos que pueden sentir un pequeño temor hacia estos adorables y traviesos animales. La verdad es que no hay nada más gratificante que conocer mejor a tus "feathered friends". Así que, ¡prepárate para sumergirte en el fascinante mundo de las gallinas y los gallos!
Need help with new chick!
Oh, the joys and jitters of welcoming new feathered friends into your flock! It sounds like you've had an egg-citing day with ten little chicks arriving in the mail. However, it’s tough when one of them isn’t quite keeping up with the pecking order. Your little guy’s clumsiness and recent upside-down position could indicate he might need some extra TLC. Before you throw in the towel, let’s explore a few ways to help him out. Sometimes, with a bit of support and observation, chicks can bounce back from their wobbly moments. So, let’s dive into some ideas to give your little buddy the best chance at clucking around with the rest of the gang. Your flock—and your heart—will thank you!
Need tips from experienced chicken owners
Hey fellow chicken enthusiasts! 🐔 It sounds like you’re off to a cluck-tastic start with your four adorable sapphire sky chicks! With a cozy custom house, a reliable feeder, fresh water, and a heat lamp, you’re already laying a solid foundation for their happy little lives. Changing the shavings daily is a fantastic way to keep things clean and comfy for your feathered friends. As you plan for a new coop (that Amazon find sounds egg-citing!), it’s natural to seek advice from seasoned chicken owners. What are some must-know tips for first-time chick parents like yourself? Whether it’s about coop essentials, socialization, or health care, sharing experiences can help make this journey a little less daunting and a lot more fun! 🥚✨
Rooster coop designs?
Rooster coop designs? If you find yourself in the delightful dilemma of having a flock of roosters, you're not alone! With a couple of charming roosters you bred yourself and a few spirited replacements on hand, it sounds like you're a true rooster enthusiast. As your feathered friends start to strut their stuff and vie for the ladies' attention, it’s time to give your bachelors their own cozy space. A well-designed rooster coop can keep the peace and ensure your boys are happy until you either expand your henhouse or one of your main roosters takes a permanent vacation. Let’s explore some cluck-tastic coop designs that will cater to your vibrant rooster crew while keeping their antics contained!
Help: Keeping my rooster cool in 40-50+°C heat wave?
When the temperature soars to a sizzling 40-50°C, keeping your feathered friend cool is an absolute must! Your pet rooster deserves a comfortable summer, and it’s great to hear you’re keeping him indoors to protect him from the heat. Dust bathing in soil pots is a delightful way for him to chill out, but let’s explore some additional cluck-tastic tips to ensure he stays cozy. Consider creating a shaded area with fans or ice packs to cool the air around him. Fresh water is essential—add ice cubes for an egg-citing twist! Regular misting can also help him cool down. With a little creativity and care, you can keep your rooster happy and healthy despite the heat wave.
And appreciation post for my Roo 🥰
Today, I’m giving a heartfelt shoutout to my beloved Roo, Marco! 🥰 When I first got him, I was told he was a pullet and even named him Merna (thanks, BCS!). While my other rooster was a bully to the hens, Marco stepped up as their protector. Sure, he’s still a bit of a scaredy cat—wind and I both send him running! But over time, I’ve watched him blossom into a vigilant guardian. He keeps a watchful eye on his ladies, chases off pesky squirrels, and even breaks up Vanillopé’s wild antics. This post is a reminder that not everything in chicken-keeping is black and white; there’s beauty in the grey areas. And let’s be honest—I can’t help but adore Marco!
Is he the cutest lil fluff 🤍
Prepare to be charmed by the adorable antics of this lil fluff! Submitted by the wonderful /u/Wildflowerdesire, this delightful creature is sure to steal your heart and maybe even ruffle a few feathers. With its irresistible cuteness and quirky personality, it’s impossible not to smile while watching this fluffy friend in action. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who finds these feathered friends a bit intimidating, this post invites you to share in the joy and laughter that comes from observing such a whimsical creature. Join the conversation and let us know if you think this lil fluff deserves the title of cutest chicken ever! Click the link to witness the cuteness overload and join the community of fellow chicken lovers!
Finally found a buff silkie hen! She's the sweetest chicken I've ever owned
Meet the latest addition to the chicken coop, a buff silkie hen that’s stealing hearts left and right! Submitted by the delightful /u/DraconicDisaster, this sweet feathered friend is proving that not all chickens are created equal. With her soft, fluffy feathers that practically invite you to snuggle, she’s quickly become the favorite among her flock. Silkie hens are known for their charming personalities and quirky antics, making them a joy to have around. Whether she’s clucking about her day or strutting her stuff, this little lady embodies the playful spirit of chickens. Join the conversation and share in the cluck-tastic excitement of welcoming a new sweet companion to the family! Check out the full story and comments [here].
Roo or hen?
Is it a roo or a hen? This question often leaves chicken enthusiasts scratching their heads, especially when it comes to the delightful dark Brahma. At around 7 weeks old, this little feathered friend stands out with its unique tail feathers, sparking curiosity about its gender. While the rest of the flock clearly leans towards being hens, having come from a pullet run, this one's distinct look raises some clucking questions. It might be a tad early to make a definitive call, but that only adds to the fun of chicken-keeping! Join us in the quest to uncover whether this Brahma is destined to strut or lay, and let’s celebrate the joys and quirks of our feathered friends together!
Good reasonably priced Heat plates?
Are you on the hunt for a cluck-tastic heat plate that won’t break the bank? You're not alone! While heat lamps can turn your bathroom into a sauna (let’s avoid any explosive incidents with ducklings, shall we?), many are seeking budget-friendly alternatives for their growing flock. With approximately 50 chicks on the way—and some hatching to boot—you’ll need either multiple heat plates or one big one to keep your feathered friends cozy. But fear not! There are reasonably priced options out there, often under $100, that can keep your chicks warm and happy without turning your space into a tropical paradise. Let’s dive into the best heat plate recommendations for this year! 🐥✨
TJ got to meet a fan the other day and now she feels like a real celebrity (and acts like one too)
The other day, TJ had a cluck-tastic moment that made her feel like a true celebrity! While mingling with her fans, she got to meet one enthusiastic supporter who showered her with compliments and admiration. This delightful encounter left TJ feeling over the moon, and let’s just say, she might be strutting around like a chicken in a fashion show! It’s a reminder that even in the whimsical world of chickens, connections with fellow enthusiasts can spark joy and a bit of playful pride. Who knew that one fan encounter could transform a regular day into an egg-citing adventure? Join us as we dive into this charming story and celebrate the quirky moments that make our feathered community so special!
baby chick (got abandoned maybe?)
Hey there, fellow chicken lovers! I’m thrilled to join this cluck-tastic community, but I’m facing a bit of a feathered dilemma. My family and I stumbled upon an adorable baby chick stuck in a bush, just moments away from becoming a cat’s lunch! We tried to find her mother, but no luck so far. While we’re hoping to reunite them by morning, I’m also worried about keeping the chick safe, especially with my cat and two dogs lurking around. For now, we’ve given her some water and a mix of smashed corn and quinoa. If we can’t find her mom, I need advice on caring for this little one and options for relocation.
My duck being…aggressive with the chickens
Ah, the classic conundrum of feathered friendships gone awry! It sounds like your male runner duck has taken his role as the “mating maestro” a bit too seriously, leading to some unwanted fowl play with your chickens. Ducks can indeed display aggressive behavior during mating season, and it’s not uncommon for them to assert their dominance over their feathered friends. If you’ve noticed one of your white chickens pinned down and looking a bit worse for wear, it’s wise to take action. Separating the duck was a good first step, but it’s essential to monitor your chickens for any lasting effects or injuries. Let’s dive into what you can do next to ensure a harmonious coop and happy, healthy birds!