chickens
chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 2944 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 have a question
Owning a gamefowl can be an egg-citing adventure, especially if you already have a charming pair of Rhode Island Reds! Gamefowl are known for their spirited personalities and unique traits, making them a fascinating addition to your flock. These feisty feathered friends often bring a playful energy to your backyard, delighting both seasoned chicken enthusiasts and curious newcomers. Mixing gamefowl with your current chickens can lead to some cluck-tastic interactions, but it's essential to consider their temperament and social dynamics. As you prepare for your new hen, think about how to create a harmonious environment, ensuring all your birds feel safe and happy. Get ready to embrace the delightful chaos that comes with this new addition—your backyard will never be the same!
- My rooster has black scab looking spots and kind of bloody on upper beak… is that what it is or something more worrisome? He is young and doing his hormonal changes so he is difficult to inspect up close.
Uh-oh, it sounds like your young rooster might be sporting some unsightly black scab-like spots on his upper beak! While hormonal changes can make our feathered friends a bit more elusive, it's essential to take note of any unusual markings or injuries. These spots could be a sign of a minor issue, like pecking or irritation, but they might also indicate something more concerning, such as a bacterial infection or fowl pox. Don’t fret just yet—inspecting him closely is key, and seeking advice from a vet who understands chickens can help you get to the bottom of this cluck-tastrophe. Your feathered friend deserves the best care, so let’s tackle these worries together!
Feather Picking (?)
Feather picking can be a real head-scratcher for chicken enthusiasts! With eight lively hens in a cozy 12x12 screened area, it’s understandable to wonder if boredom or space constraints are at play. While you’ve ruled out pesky mites and noticed some self-pecking behavior, it's crucial to explore engaging solutions. Hens thrive on stimulation, so consider adding toys, perches, or foraging opportunities to keep their minds and beaks busy! Additionally, ensure that their living space allows for some social distancing, as too much proximity can lead to pecking. It’s all about creating a cluck-tastic environment that promotes happy, healthy feathered friends. Let’s dive into the strategies that have worked wonders for others facing feather-picking dilemmas!
lethargic, weak chicken
Hello, chicken enthusiasts! We’ve got a cluck-tastic conundrum on our hands, and we need your expertise. One of our beloved hens found herself in quite the pickle—trapped in netting for nearly two days, resulting in severe dehydration and lethargy. After moving her to a cozy, warm spot with a heat lamp and fresh bedding, we’ve been doing our best to nurse her back to health. While she’s showing some improvement—able to flap her wings—her right claw remains unresponsive. We’ve been providing her with a nourishing mix of water, egg yolk, and a pinch of salt to help with electrolytes. We’re reaching out for any advice, suggestions, or encouragement you can share.
Ok.
Welcome to a cluck-tastic discussion that’s sure to ruffle some feathers! In this post, submitted by the adventurous /u/Infinite-Discount669, we dive into the whimsical world of chickens and the delightful chaos they bring. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just someone who finds these feathered friends both amusing and a tad intimidating, this community is here for you! Get ready to explore the quirks of chicken ownership, share your own hilarious stories, and connect with fellow enthusiasts who understand the love-hate relationship we all have with our poultry pals. So, let’s embrace the madness, share some laughs, and maybe even learn a thing or two along the way! Join us as we embark on this egg-citing journey together!
Not sure what’s going on
Uh-oh, it sounds like something's up with our feathered friend! If your chicken has never been swollen like this before, you might be wondering what on earth is happening. Could it be that she got stung? Chickens can experience swelling for a variety of reasons, including reactions to insect bites, infections, or even dietary issues. It’s crucial to observe her behavior closely—has she been more lethargic, or are there any signs of distress? Remember, while it's easy to panic, staying calm and informed will help you address the issue. Let’s dive into what might be going on and how to help her return to her happy, clucking self! Join the conversation and share your thoughts or experiences!
Will chicks this large accept new younger chicks?
Wondering if your current flock of feathery friends will welcome some new, younger chicks? It’s a cluck-tastic question! Integrating new chicks can be a bit of a juggling act, especially when your existing crew is on the larger side. Fortunately, younger chickens are often more accepting of newcomers, particularly if they’re introduced properly. You’ll want to ensure that your new additions are close in age to your existing birds, as this can help minimize any potential fowl play. Remember, chickens can be a bit quirky about their pecking order, but with the right approach—like gradual introductions and providing plenty of space—your flock may just embrace their new members with open wings! So, let’s get those introductions underway and see how it goes!
Letting his hackles fly in the wind before the storm yesterday
In a delightful twist on a classic scenario, yesterday, /u/Ok-Caramel-3169 shared an enchanting moment of their dog letting his hackles fly in the wind, just before a storm rolled in. This playful depiction captures the unique bond between pets and the elements, showcasing how animals instinctively react to changing weather. As the clouds gathered and the air turned electric, the dog's excitement mirrored the whimsical chaos that often accompanies a tempest. With a combination of humor and heartfelt observation, this post invites readers to appreciate the quirks of their own furry companions and the joy they bring during life's unpredictable moments. Join the conversation and share your own stories of pet antics amidst the stormy skies!
Male or Female? Easter Egger or Cream Legbar? Maybe a Mix?
Are you scratching your head over the gender and breed of your adorable, feathered friends? Join the club! This delightful post dives into the mystery surrounding a group of five-week-old chicks, initially sold as Easter Eggers but possibly sporting some Cream Legbar lineage—or perhaps even a mix of both! With the excitement of chicken-keeping comes the fun of breed identification, and our fellow chicken enthusiast is reaching out for some cluck-tastic insights. Plus, there's a suspicion that one of these girls might be a rooster, adding another layer of intrigue to the mix. So, what do you think? Let’s gather around and lend our collective wisdom to help decipher this poultry puzzle!
Chicken math
Ah, the whimsical world of chicken math! As bedtime rolled around, the cozy coop cradled five fluffy chicks, each one a feathered bundle of joy. But wait – the adventure doesn’t stop there! Our beloved Broody Mama is still diligently perched atop several eggs, promising that tomorrow morning could bring even more cluck-tastic surprises. Will the egg count increase, or will we have five little chirpers ruling the roost? The anticipation is egg-citing! For those of us who have danced the delicate dance of chicken math, this scenario is all too familiar. Join us as we navigate the delightful chaos of counting our feathered friends, balancing hopes and dreams with a sprinkle of playful uncertainty.
why is my partners baby chick doing this?
If you've ever found yourself wondering, "Why is my partner's baby chick acting so strangely?" you’re not alone! Bringing a feathered friend indoors can lead to some quirky behaviors that leave us scratching our heads. Baby chicks are curious little creatures, but when they start acting off, it can be a cause for concern. Whether they're chirping excessively, flapping around like they’ve just discovered their wings, or cuddling up more than usual, these actions can signal a variety of things. Is it a sign of stress, a need for warmth, or simply a case of the wiggles? Join the conversation and let’s unravel this cluck-tastic mystery together! Your expertise or experience could make all the difference for our little friend.
Egg hatching but also bleeding? What's the most logical thing to do?
Egg hatching can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience, especially when unexpected surprises—like a bleeding chick—come into play. If you've observed a chick zipping and also bleeding, it’s natural to feel a mix of concern and confusion. While some sources suggest that bleeding may indicate the chick hasn’t fully developed, it’s essential to assess the situation carefully. Since you’ve successfully hatched two other chicks from the same batch, it’s a good sign, but each case is unique. Should you intervene or let nature take its course? This dilemma can be tricky, and weighing your options with a blend of caution and care is key. Let’s explore the most logical steps to take in this cluck-tastic conundrum, ensuring the best outcome for your feathered friend!
"Behold the King of the backyard. Majestic stance, fiery red crown. The ultimate definition of pride." 👑Guess the Breed?
Step right up and behold the true royalty of the backyard! With a majestic stance and a fiery red crown that commands attention, this feathered friend embodies the ultimate definition of pride. Strutting around like the king they are, they bring a sense of grandeur and a dash of drama to any coop. But this regal presence comes with a playful twist—can you guess the breed? Join the fun and test your chicken knowledge as we dive into the world of our majestic feathered companions. Whether you're a seasoned chicken wrangler or just a curious onlooker, this is a cluck-tastic opportunity to engage and share in the love of our backyard beauties. Don’t miss out on the crowning moment! 👑
Pip or external damage?
Uh-oh, chicken lovers! You’ve got a tiny chick on your hands, and it’s raising all sorts of questions. Is it pipping, or did the hens accidentally give it a bit of a rough start? You’re not alone in this clucking conundrum. With the hatch day looming—perhaps even past—it’s natural to worry when you don’t hear chirps or see any movement. Whether it’s been 20 to 28 hours, the uncertainty can really ruffle your feathers. So, what’s the next step? Let’s dive into the signs of successful pipping versus possible external damage. We’ll help you navigate this egg-citing yet nerve-wracking situation, ensuring your feathered friend gets the best chance at a happy, healthy arrival!
People don't usually know this but chickens are really good and intelligent pets. They recognize their owners and much more!
Did you know that chickens are not just clucking creatures of the coop, but also fantastic and intelligent pets? These feathered friends can recognize their owners and even learn tricks, showcasing their quirky personalities! Beyond their egg-citing antics, chickens offer companionship that can warm your heart and sometimes ruffle your feathers. I absolutely adore my purple chicken, who brings joy and a touch of madness to my daily life. Have you had any memorable moments with your own chicken pet? Whether it's a hilarious mishap or a heartwarming bond, I’d love to hear your stories! Let’s celebrate the whimsical world of chickens together and share the joy they bring into our lives. What cluck-tastic tales do you have?
New girls first day out the coop!
Get ready for some cluck-tastic news! To celebrate an egg-citing milestone of 13 years of chicken-keeping, I’ve added four fabulous new girls to my flock! These lovely ladies have been enjoying their cozy coop life for a week, getting acquainted with their new home, and now it's time for their grand debut! Meet Zuggi, a Light Brahma named after Zugspitze; Laya, our Partridge, inspired by the majestic Himalaya; Elby, the White Cochin, named after Elbrus; and last but not least, Easter, the buff Brahma who hopped into our lives just in time for the holiday! And let’s not forget a close-up of my roosters’ glorious feathers. Join me in celebrating this new chapter with my feathered friends! Enjoy!
Needing to rehome my flock of 12.
I’m heartbroken to share that I need to rehome my beloved flock of 12 chickens. I’ve cared for these feathered friends since I was ten, and they’ve brought me immense joy. Unfortunately, my living situation has become unmanageable, and I’m the only one in my family who cares for them. I’m located in Douglas, MA, and I can’t drive, but I’m more than happy to have someone come pick them up. This sweet crew includes older birds that still lay occasionally, plus younger ones that are laying like champs this spring. They’re all healthy, friendly, and have unique personalities! I’m even offering a coop and supplies for free, all I ask is to see your setup to ensure they go to a loving home.
My chicks started hatching today. One of them has three legs.
Today marks a memorable milestone in my chicken-raising journey as my chicks have started hatching! Among the adorable peeps, I discovered one little miracle— a chick with three legs! This unexpected surprise has left me completely shocked. I’ve raised countless feathered friends before, but I’ve never encountered anything quite like this. The little guy seems healthy and lively, which brings me some relief, but I can’t help but wonder how this happened. Is there anything I can do to support him as he grows? If you’ve ever navigated a unique chick situation or have insights to share, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s cluck together and figure out how to give this special chick the best chance at life!
These are our Bantam chickens. My son has been hand-feeding them since their very first day of life. Now, they all love him.
Meet our delightful Bantam chickens! These tiny feathered friends have captured our hearts, and it's all thanks to my son, who has been hand-feeding them since their very first day of life. His nurturing touch has created a bond that’s truly cluck-tastic—now, these little birds eagerly flock to him for treats and attention. Their playful antics bring joy to our days, and it’s fascinating to watch their personalities develop. From their quirky behaviors to their charming coos, they never fail to amuse us. If you’ve ever considered adding Bantams to your family, prepare for a delightful journey filled with laughter and love. Join us in celebrating these adorable companions who know just how to ruffle our feathers in the best way possible!
Chicken health
It sounds like your sister's chicken might be facing a bit of a rough patch with her feathered friends. Observing vent feather issues, along with her fearfulness and reluctance to forage or compete for food, can indeed indicate both bullying and possible health concerns. Chickens can be surprisingly social creatures, and when one feels out of place or threatened, it can lead to stress and health problems. It’s great to hear that you’re planning to take her to the vet first thing tomorrow—this is a cluck-tastic step toward understanding what’s going on. In the meantime, creating a calm space for her away from the other hens might help ease her anxiety. Let’s hope for some egg-citing news about her health soon!
Update: Broody turkey gets chicken eggs
In a cluck-tastic twist of fate, our feathered friends are once again stealing the spotlight! This time, it's a broody turkey who has taken a shine to chicken eggs, and the results are nothing short of egg-citing. Submitted by the ever-observant /u/Nandor_Delaurentez, this update showcases the quirky antics of farm life that remind us just how unpredictable our beloved birds can be. Will the turkey embrace her new role as a surrogate mom, or will she chicken out? Join the discussion and share your thoughts on this delightful fowl play! Click the link to dive into the comments and unravel this whimsical tale of cross-species bonding on the farm.
Can someone show me pictures of your Faverolle-mixed chickens? Im incubating some and wondering what they will look like
Are you curious about the delightful world of Faverolle-mixed chickens? If you’re incubating some and wondering what feathered friends might hatch from those eggs, you’re in for a treat! Faverolles, known for their charming appearance and sweet personalities, bring a unique flair to any flock. The mix can result in a variety of stunning colors and feather patterns, making each chicken a little surprise package of cluck-tastic joy. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or simply chicken-curious, sharing pictures of Faverolle mixes can spark excitement and inspire others. Join the conversation and let’s celebrate these quirky beauties together! Your fellow chicken lovers are eager to share their experiences and showcase their fabulous flocks. Get ready for a visual feast of feathered fun!
We had a graduation party when my chickens graduated from the brooder to the coop!
What a cluck-tastic celebration it was when my chickens graduated from the brooder to the coop! We transformed our backyard into a festive haven, complete with graduation plates and napkins, while my daughter whipped up some egg-citing chicken cupcakes. Everyone donned bead necklaces, adding a dash of flair to our gathering. Though our feathered friends were less than thrilled about their little graduation caps, the joy in the air was palpable. With balloons floating high and streamers adding a splash of color, we created a delightful atmosphere for our intimate group of eight. Of course, the chickens didn’t miss out on the fun—they enjoyed their own special treats as we celebrated this milestone in style!
Does anyone else have a hydro homie chicken?
Does anyone else have a hydro homie chicken? Meet my girl Noodles—she's a true water connoisseur! Whenever I refresh her water, she’s always the first to dive in, making a splash that even the ducks can’t compete with. It’s as if she’s throwing her own little pool party, and everyone else is just invited to watch. Noodles has this delightful knack for turning the simple act of drinking into a cluck-tastic event! I can’t help but chuckle as she hops around, splashing water everywhere and making it clear that fresh H2O is her favorite treat. If you have a feathered friend who shares this enthusiasm for hydration, let’s hear your stories! It’s time to celebrate our quirky chickens and their adorable antics!