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.
I was given a chicken
Meet the charming tale of a feathered friend and a compassionate caretaker! In a delightful twist of fate, the author’s family—longtime chicken enthusiasts—discovered a group of mixed chicks for free on the marketplace. While two of the little ones faced health challenges, one resilient chick emerged victorious, thanks to some dedicated nursing. This newfound companion, a spirited little rooster, has proven to be quite the lovable shadow, following the author everywhere and defying preconceived notions about roosters. However, there's a small hiccup in this heartwarming journey: the author is unsure of their adorable friend's breed or if he’s even mixed. They’re reaching out for assistance to unravel this feathered mystery. Any insights would be cluck-tastic!
First time incubating
Embarking on my first egg-incubating adventure with a $40 Amazon incubator has been nothing short of a cluck-tastic journey! I experimented a bit, even trying to salvage a pecked egg by taping up the hole—who knew that would actually work? I hatched a delightful baby Cochin from that brave little egg! Although I lost four eggs, I decided to add four more on day nine, just to test my luck. So far, one Serama has hatched, and two Cochin eggs are pipped. Plus, I’ve welcomed two turkeys into the mix! It’s been a whirlwind of excitement and learning. If you have any tips on sexing heritage turkeys or know of a great turkey community, I’d love to hear from you!
Is our baby speckled Sussex a boy 😭
Is your baby speckled Sussex a boy? The anticipation can feel like a rollercoaster ride, especially when you’re about 90% sure but secretly hoping for a different outcome. At four weeks old, you’re likely noticing some telltale signs that could point to your little chick’s gender, but uncertainty can ruffle anyone’s feathers! Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or a newbie navigating the delightful chaos of poultry parenthood, the question of gender can stir up a swirl of emotions. Join the conversation to share your insights, experiences, and maybe even a few comforting cluck-tastic tales. Let’s unravel this mystery together, and who knows—you might just find some egg-citing news waiting in the comments!
Last bit of chick photoshoot I forgot to post
Get ready for a cluck-tastic treat! Our fellow chicken enthusiast, u/HannahMarie04, has shared the last bit of their adorable chick photoshoot that we simply can’t resist. These little feathered friends are here to capture your heart and maybe even ruffle a few feathers with their cuteness. From their fluffy little bodies to those curious beaks, these chicks are all about bringing joy and a sprinkle of whimsy into our lives. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken lover or someone who’s chickening out at the thought of owning these delightful creatures, this collection is sure to make you smile. Don’t miss out on the fun—check out the link and join the conversation in the comments! Your daily dose of chick joy awaits!
"My rooster swallowed a large bone. What should I do now? Will there be any problem?"
Oh no! If your rooster has swallowed a large bone, it’s time to act swiftly and with care. Chickens, especially our feathered friends like roosters, can be curious and sometimes a bit reckless in their eating habits. Swallowing a bone can lead to serious complications, including choking or internal injuries. First, observe your rooster closely for any signs of distress—such as coughing, drooling, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any concerning symptoms, it's best to consult a veterinarian immediately. They can provide the right guidance and treatment options. Remember, while our chickens can be a bit madcap, we want to keep them cluck-tastic and healthy. Stay calm and take action to ensure your rooster's well-being!
Free range from dawn to dusk
Get ready for a cluck-tastic adventure into the world of free-range chickens, submitted by the ever-enthusiastic /u/Justforyounot! Imagine your feathered friends roaming freely from dawn to dusk, exploring every nook and cranny of your yard with a sense of joyful curiosity. This delightful post dives into the benefits of allowing chickens the freedom to roam, emphasizing their natural instincts and the happiness that comes with it. Join the conversation as we share tips, stories, and perhaps a few hilarious chicken antics that will have you laughing and nodding in agreement. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just chicken-curious, this is the perfect opportunity to embrace the quirky charm of our fowl companions. Let the fun begin!
I never thought I'd ever love a chicken as much as I love Dwight
In a world where fowl can be both fascinating and fearsome, one surprising bond stands out. Meet Dwight, the chicken who has clucked his way into the heart of a devoted chicken lover. Submitted by the user drywall_punching, this delightful tale explores the whimsical journey of discovering love for a feathered friend. With humor and sincerity, the story captures the quirks and charm of Dwight, showcasing how this lovable chicken defies expectations and brings joy to everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who has chickened out at the thought of owning one, this heartfelt narrative is sure to resonate. Get ready to embrace the cluck-tastic adventure of friendship and unexpected affection!
Lump on Leg
Have you ever spotted a lump on your chicken’s hock joint and felt a mix of confusion and concern? Meet the one-year-old Easter Egger who's not only an egg-laying enigma (with just three eggs to her name) but also now has a mysterious lump that’s left her caregiver puzzled. After noticing the bump last Wednesday and observing no change in behavior, the owner attempted to aspirate the lump, only to find it solid and somewhat vascular. Despite keeping her comfortable and clean with antibiotic cream, the chicken has started limping significantly. With no local vets willing to help and a long drive to the nearest one, this chicken enthusiast is reaching out for insights and support from fellow chicken lovers.
2 weeks today 🐣
In just two weeks, these delightful little fluff balls will transform into fabulously feathered friends! Get ready for a cluck-tastic journey as they shed their fuzzy coats and embrace their feathered glory. From the charming White Crested Splash Polish to the quirky Mottled Frizzle Cochin Bantam, each chick is bursting with personality and potential. Don’t forget about the whimsical Frizzle Easter Egger Bantam and the elegant Blue Silkie Bantam, all set to strut their stuff in style! Join us in this exciting countdown as we witness their growth and development. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just a curious observer, this adventure is sure to bring joy and laughter. Stay tuned for updates and share in the excitement! 🐣🐤🐥😍
Tiny Tina Tuesday! 🔆 🐦⬛
Welcome to Tiny Tina Tuesday! 🔆 🐦⬛ Get ready for a cluck-tastic celebration of all things chicken, where humor meets heart in the most delightful way. Each Tuesday, we dive into the whimsical world of our feathered friends, sharing stories, tips, and plenty of egg-citing insights that will tickle your funny bone and warm your heart. Whether you're a seasoned chicken wrangler or just someone who finds joy (and a hint of fear) in their quirky antics, this weekly gathering is for you! Join us as we explore the hilarity of chicken life, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and maybe even conquer a few fears along the way. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s cluck about it!
Does anyone know what breed this tractor supply chick is? It was in with a bunch of barred rocks? Now it’s older with some feathering.. thank you! (Loud chirping warning lol)
Are you scratching your head over a curious little chick that seems to have snuck in with the barred rocks at Tractor Supply? You're not alone! Our feathered friends come in a delightful array of breeds, and sometimes it can be a challenge to identify them—especially when they start to grow and show off their unique feathering. This is a call to all chicken enthusiasts: let’s band together and help unravel this mystery! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your chicken-keeping journey, your insights could be the key to figuring out this chick's breed. So, take a moment to share your thoughts and let’s celebrate our shared love (and occasional bewilderment) for these clucky companions! (P.S. Loud chirping alert!)
"The king and his queen are soaking up the sun together."
In a delightful scene that captures the essence of companionship, "The king and his queen are soaking up the sun together" paints an idyllic picture of love and warmth. This whimsical moment invites us to imagine a regal pair basking in the gentle rays, their bond shining as brightly as the sun above. Whether they're lounging on a throne of soft grass or simply enjoying each other's company, the imagery evokes a sense of joy and tranquility. It's a reminder that even those in positions of power need moments of rest and connection. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this charming depiction of royalty in a serene setting, where laughter and love intertwine under the golden sky.
Help! Marans hen with purple comb
Oh no, it sounds like Octavia is having a bit of a rough patch! Marans hens are known for their stunning looks and sweet personalities, so it's concerning to see her comb turning purple. This color change can indeed indicate circulation issues, which can be worrisome. While it's great that she's still eating and moving around, her sluggishness and being off lay for a few weeks are red flags. Since you don't have a poultry vet nearby, reaching out to fellow chicken enthusiasts can be a cluck-tastic way to gather advice. Have you considered checking her environment for any stressors or potential health issues? Let's rally together and see what we can do to help our feathered friend feel better soon!
First ever fairy egg
Today brings a sprinkle of magic with the discovery of our very first fairy egg! While this delightful surprise lights up our spirits, it also comes with a heavy heart as we face the bittersweet reality of rehoming our beloved chickens. After a month-long battle with city regulations, we’ve sadly accepted that our feathered friends must find new homes by April 27th. We’re grateful our dear neighbor has taken in Henrietta, allowing us the joy of visiting her. The rest will find refuge at a sanctuary, though we won’t be able to see them again. Over the past four years, we’ve learned so much from our quirky flock, and we’re already dreaming of welcoming more chickens into our lives in the future! ❤️
Introducing new chicks... Store-bought vs hatched
Introducing new chicks into a mixed flock can feel like a cluck-tastic adventure, especially when you’ve got a colorful crew of bantams and standard-sized chickens! With 11 newly purchased chicks, roughly six weeks old, safely brooding in the coop, and three adorable ones hatched by a broody hen just three weeks old, you’re in quite the feathered predicament. While your older hens seem to ignore the little ones during free range, it’s natural to wonder about integrating your store-bought chicks. The common advice is to wait until all birds are similar in size, but your situation is anything but traditional! Let’s explore how to navigate this delightful chaos and ensure everyone gets along in your charming chicken kingdom.
Need a special name for this special little baby
Meet this cluck-tastic little chick, a true embodiment of love and legacy! This feathered friend hatches from the egg of a remarkable hen, one of the very first chickens I ever bred. Sadly, this incredible mother passed away just a day after laying the egg, making this tiny chick not only special but also a poignant reminder of her spirit. With such an extraordinary backstory, this little one deserves a name that reflects its unique journey and the bond it shares with its late mother. Let's come together to brainstorm the perfect name for this precious baby, ensuring it carries on the love and legacy of its remarkable mom!
How old is this rooster?
Meet our charming new feathered friend—a rooster who found his way to our rural home, likely abandoned by a previous owner. This handsome fellow is a sight to behold, exuding love and affection as he follows us around the yard, eagerly asking to be picked up each morning. His gentle nature makes us wonder about his age. How old do you think he is? As we consider whether to keep him, we also ponder if we need to bring in some hens to complete his little flock. Would he still shower us with love if he had a couple of girls by his side? Join us in exploring the delightful quirks of this lovable rooster and the possibilities that lie ahead!
My little friend crossed the rainbow bridge
Today, I bid farewell to my little friend Gigi, who crossed the rainbow bridge this morning. 🌈 I adopted Gigi and her flock sister, Midge, during lockdown, and they were my delightful companions throughout those challenging times. Gigi was a sweet and beautiful hen, often found indulging in potted plants as if they were her personal spa retreat. While she could be a bit skittish, her friendly nature shone through, and she loved the occasional cuddle. Unlike her feisty sister Midge, Gigi had a gentle spirit and a knack for recognizing her name, always coming running when I called. Fly high, my feathered friend; your spirit will always flutter in my heart. ❤️
Chicken math
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken math, where the numbers just never seem to add up! If you've ever found yourself wondering how one or two feathered friends turned into a bustling flock, you’re not alone. Chicken math is that delightful phenomenon where each new addition feels like a cluck-tastic necessity. Whether it's succumbing to the charm of a new breed or simply expanding your egg-citing collection, it’s easy to find yourself in a feathery frenzy. But fear not, dear reader! This fun and relatable journey into the world of chickens will reassure you that, in the end, you can never have too many of these quirky companions.
Goodbye, little Cheeky
Saying goodbye to little Cheeky has left my heart heavy and my spirit in shock. I returned home from lunch, expecting to see her gentle presence among my feathered friends, but instead found a void. Cheeky, my timid Olive Egger, was the smallest in the flock and the sweetest soul I had from Day 1. Despite her challenges, including a bout with dry fowl pox, she brought joy with her dust baths and playful scratching in the pebbles. While her sisters began laying eggs in January, Cheeky remained my beloved little companion, and now I’m left with only memories. Thank you, Cheeky, for the moments we shared. You will always be my first favorite chicken, and I will cherish you forever.
What is my baby doing?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken ownership, Deirdre! Your five-week-old bantam Cochin is certainly on an exciting journey as he explores his charming feathered life. If you suspect he’s a cockerel, those early attempts at crowing are just his way of finding his voice—how egg-citing! Don't fret too much about his slower development; bantam Cochins are known for their unique growth patterns, and each chick has its own timeline. It's not unusual for some to be fluff balls while others strut around fully feathered. Embrace the quirks of your feathered friends, and remember, every day brings a new cluck-tastic adventure in the chicken coop! Your community of fellow chicken enthusiasts is here to share in the fun and offer support.
Help
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is having a bit of a rough patch! It's perfectly normal for first-time chicken owners to feel a little flustered when it comes to their flock's health. Since your chick is still eating, drinking, and mingling with her buddies, that’s a good sign! However, it’s essential to pay attention to any changes in behavior or appetite. To help you out, consider checking for signs of illness, ensuring she has a comfortable space, and reviewing her diet. The chicken community is here to support you, so don’t hesitate to ask more questions or share specific details about her condition.
Ireland ~ Anyone In Reach Of Leitrim?
Hey there, chicken lovers of Leitrim! I’m in a bit of a cluck-tastrophe—my Modern Game Bantam hens just won’t stop laying! I’ve already given away a couple of dozen eggs, but these feathered friends are determined to keep producing more. They’re perfect for kids—sweet, innocent, and absolutely adorable! A local expert even praised their quality, saying they’re great breeding stock. Unfortunately, I can’t send them out due to skyrocketing shipping costs and my limited trips to town. So, I’m reaching out to you wonderful folks for help! I won’t accept a cent; I’m just passionate about preserving this breed. If you know anyone who might be interested, please let me know. Your support means the world to me!
Best Practices for Managing Chicks Right After Hatching?
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the feathered world of chick management right after hatching. It's a crucial time for our adorable little chicks, and best practices can make all the difference in their survival and health. In Palestine, we typically start with sugar water on day one and follow up with antibiotics in their drinking water for the first five days. By day seven, we administer the Newcastle disease vaccine. But how does this stack up against practices in other regions or professional farms? Do you use sugar water right away? What’s your stance on antibiotics? I’d love to hear your vaccination schedules and any additional supplements you recommend.