chickens
Alektorophobia keeps chickens in one place: 3880 stories so far. The section currently leads with “Squirrel Fears, Chicken Tears, and Holes That Haunt My Coop Dreams”, “My limping hen is laying shell-less eggs and acting sluggish”, and “Feathers, combs, and rooster suspicions: our feathered friends keep us guessing”. Squirrels—those bushy-tailed bandits—can really test our patience, especially when it comes to protecting our beloved chickens! Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is having a rough time! Chickens. Everything there is to know about chickens and the fear of them. The list below is every chickens story on Alektorophobia, newest first.
Squirrel Fears, Chicken Tears, and Holes That Haunt My Coop Dreams
Squirrels—those bushy-tailed bandits—can really test our patience, especially when it comes to protecting our beloved chickens! While I’m crossing my fingers that these furry foes aren’t eyeing your feathered friends, their penchant for digging can create more than just a few holes in your coop’s defenses. It sounds like you’ve put in a solid effort with hardware cloth and cement blocks, but those persistent critters always seem to find a way around our best-laid plans. If you’re feeling a bit lost in the battle against these furry invaders, fear not! In this lively discussion, let’s share some cluck-tastic tips and tricks to keep those squirrels at bay and ensure your coop remains a safe haven for your chickens. Your insights and experiences are welcome!

My limping hen is laying shell-less eggs and acting sluggish
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is having a rough time! A limping chicken that’s laying eggs without shells can be a cause for concern. Sluggishness and limping might indicate a health issue, and those shell-less eggs—yikes!—could point to calcium deficiency or other nutritional problems. Chickens are pretty resilient, but they also need our TLC to bounce back. It’s essential to assess her diet, check for any injuries, and possibly consult a vet to get to the bottom of this situation. Remember, your chicken depends on you for care and support. Let’s get to clucking about how to help her feel better and back to her lively self again!

Feathers, combs, and rooster suspicions: our feathered friends keep us guessing
Hey there, fellow chicken enthusiast! It sounds like you’ve got a bit of a cluck-tastrophe on your hands with your three Midnight Majesty Marans. At six weeks old, those feathered friends can be tricky to identify, especially when combs haven’t yet revealed their secrets. The short wing feathers and lack of tail feathers in two of your chicks could very well indicate they're roosters, as males tend to show these traits earlier. Since you can’t have roosters in your city, it’s wise to plan ahead—better safe than sorry! Let’s dive into the chicken chat and see if we can unravel this feathered mystery together. TIA for sharing your journey with us!

My feathered friends are adorable and I'm only slightly terrified
As a first-time chicken owner, I can confidently say these feathered friends are absolutely adorable! From their quirky personalities to their soft, fluffy feathers, chickens bring a unique charm to any backyard. Watching them waddle around, pecking at the ground and sharing their silly antics, is a delightful experience that never fails to brighten my day. Of course, there are moments of clucking chaos that can leave you in stitches, reminding you just how unpredictable these lovely creatures can be. Whether you're considering adding chickens to your family or simply enjoy their antics from afar, there's no denying that these little bundles of joy have a way of capturing our hearts. Join me on this egg-citing adventure into the world of chickens!

New chicken mom panic: Is my hen egg-bound or just stressed?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chicken parenting! It sounds like you’re navigating quite the adventure with your new feathered friends. First off, it's completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed—chickens can be quirky and unpredictable! The bigger chicken’s lack of eggs could be due to several factors, like her adjustment to a new environment or diet changes. Diarrhea might signal a dietary issue, especially with the feed situation you mentioned. Worms are a tasty treat, but moderation is key! Keep an eye on her behavior, especially her tail position, as it can indicate her mood. Don't worry; you're not alone in this journey, and there’s a vibrant community ready to share tips and support. Let’s get clucking on some solutions!

My $156 Dozen Eggs: A Cluck-Tastic Investment That'll Pay Off in Five Years
Ever wondered how much it really costs to keep your own chickens for egg production? Well, let me cluck you in on a little secret: it’s about $156 per dozen! Now, before you start chickening out, let me assure you this is slightly tongue-in-cheek. People often ask if raising chickens saves money, and I wanted to share my experience in a light-hearted way. Mind you, I’ve only been tracking my egg production for a week, so at this rate, it looks like I’ll break even in about five years—talk about a long game! Join me on this whimsical journey of chicken-keeping, where humor meets reality, and let’s see if those feathered friends are worth the investment!

37°F and Free at Last: A Chicken Mom's Cluck-tastic Countdown
It sounds like you’re on the brink of an exciting adventure with your feathered friends! With the coop set to be finished this weekend and temperatures hovering in the 40s and 50s, it seems like the perfect time to let your chickens stretch their wings outside. While 37°F might feel a bit chilly, your leghorns are generally pretty resilient. If they’ve been cozy in a 60°F basement, a gradual transition could help them adapt. However, if you’re worried about the cold snap, waiting a week might be wise to ensure they’re comfortable. Just think of all the cluck-tastic memories you’ll make once they’re finally outside! Whatever you decide, it’s clear that this chicken momma is ready for some outdoor fun.

Cluck yeah, I'm the proud leader of six feathered weirdos
Welcome to my chickie coven, where feathered friends reign supreme! As a first-time chicken parent and proud flock leader, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my quirky crew of six. Meet my three Dominique divas: Nancy of the Winged Eyeliner, the boss with beauty to match; Lottie Shadow Queen, our goth grrrrrl with a flair for the dramatic; and Ursula the Masked Bandit, here to steal hearts with her charm. Then we have the three Cinnamon Queens: Glam Golden Glinda, who insists on no autographs; Willow Will O’Wisp, the mysterious beauty who prefers no touching; and sweet Winnifred, kissed by an angel on her head. Join me on this cluck-tastic adventure filled with laughter, love, and a little bit of madness!

Darkest Egg Yet? Day 26 and My Classroom Flock Is Down to Three
Oh, the egg-citement and anxiety of hatching day! It sounds like you’re in quite the cluck-tastrophe, and we totally get it—losing eggs can feel like a real heartbreaker, especially when your students are counting on those little miracles. A dark egg on day 26 could mean a few things, and it’s natural to feel a mix of hope and worry right now. Let’s work together to figure out if your feathered friend is just about ready to make its grand entrance or if it’s time to face the egg-citing reality of an unviable egg. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and we’re here to help you navigate these tricky times with your classroom’s favorite hatchlings!

My Chicken's Face Scratching Has Me Blinking with Worry
Oh no, it sounds like your feathered friend is having a bit of a rough time! When a chicken starts scratching her face raw, it can be concerning, especially for a new chicken tender like yourself. First things first, let’s breathe easy—mites aren’t the only culprits behind such behaviors. Chickens can scratch for various reasons, including allergies, irritation, or even boredom. Observing that she blinks frequently on one side may indicate discomfort, so it’s essential to take a closer look. In this cluck-tastic journey of chicken care, you’re not alone! Let’s dive into some possible solutions to help your chicken feel better and keep her from chickening out on her playful antics. Your concern shows you're a caring chicken tender already!

Garage Glamour & Coop Chaos: Our Feathered Friends Arrive
Welcome to our cluck-tastic adventure into the world of chickens! Meet our feathered friends—who are currently cozying up in our garage while we figure out this whole chicken-keeping thing. We might be winging it, but we’ve consulted a few chicken experts to ensure the girls have everything they need: food, clean water, and warmth. We’re also in the process of building a super-secure coop to keep those pesky predators like coyotes, foxes, and raccoons at bay. As we navigate this new chapter in coastal NC, our kids can’t help but shower the chickens with love (and kisses). Here’s hoping they don’t catch any chicken-related germs! Join us on this egg-citing journey as we learn, laugh, and cluck our way through chicken ownership!
My Hen Vanished for Days and Came Back Totally Cluck-tastic
Have you ever had a feathered friend go completely bonkers? One Easter Egger has returned after a mysterious absence, and she’s acting like she’s just discovered a secret stash of bath salts! Darting around, puffing up like a proud tom turkey, and screeching at everything in sight, she’s got the entire flock in a tizzy. It’s not every day you see a chicken acting neurologic, especially after disappearing for so long. With a small line of woods behind the house, there’s a chance she was off laying eggs or perhaps having an adventure of her own. Is this behavior just the antics of a super broody hen, or could there be something more sinister at play? Let’s dive into the cluck-tastic chaos!

Silkies at six days old: tiny fluffballs already plotting fowl play
Meet the adorable six-day-old silkies submitted by our feathered friend, /u/Live_Committee_9491! These fluffy little bundles of joy are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a delightful blend of charm and chaos that perfectly embodies the whimsical world of chickens. Silkies are known for their unique, fluffy plumage and sweet personalities, making them the ultimate feathered companions. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or a curious newcomer, watching these tiny chicks explore their surroundings is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. So, get ready for some cluck-tastic cuteness as we dive into the delightful antics of these silkies. Click the link to see more and join the conversation about these egg-citing little ones!

Silkies from Cackle Hatchery? That's a whole flock of pasty butt
Party butt, anyone? It seems like my new silkies, shipped from Cackle Hatchery, are all experiencing the same quirky issue—pasty butt! While this condition is relatively common, it's intriguing to see it affect all of them at once. Pasty butt occurs when droppings accumulate around the vent, which can be both uncomfortable for our feathered friends and a bit alarming for us chicken enthusiasts. It’s certainly not the party trick I expected from my silky crew! If you’ve encountered this before or have tips on how to tackle it, I’d love to hear your experiences. Let’s dive into the delightful world of chicken care together and bring some cluck-tastic solutions to this situation!

Mini eggs, maxi worry: will my half-silkie eggs hatch?
Are you diving into the delightful world of all-black Silkies? How egg-citing! It sounds like you've got a charming mix with your Mystic Onyx hens and a Silkie roo. When it comes to the size of the eggs, it's natural to wonder if they're too small for hatching. Generally, Silkie eggs can vary in size, especially when mixed with other breeds. The comparison to a regular-sized egg from a "normal" chicken is helpful, but keep in mind that Silkies are known for their unique quirks. If your girls have just started laying consistently since March or April, it might be worth giving them a little more time. As they mature, their egg size may increase, giving your hatchling dreams a better chance to soar!

Help! My wobbly chick won't eat but won't stop chirping
Hey, fellow chicken enthusiasts! It sounds like you’ve got a little chick in distress, and that's definitely a cluck-tastic concern. With all your other feathered friends thriving, it’s natural to worry when one isn't quite keeping up. Your chick’s closed eyes, wobbly stance, and lack of appetite can be alarming, especially for a first-time chick parent. Luckily, you're not alone in this journey, and there are steps to take to ensure your little one gets back on track. Chirping is a good sign, so let’s explore what might be going on and how you can help. Together, we can figure out this fowl mystery and ensure your chick gets the care it needs—because every little chick deserves a fighting chance!

Spring's first peeps are here and my heart is doing the chicken dance
Spring has officially sprung, and with it comes the arrival of the first chicks of the year! Submitted by the delightful /u/harmanow, this heartwarming post captures the joy and excitement of welcoming these adorable feathered friends into the world. There's something undeniably magical about watching fluffy little chicks take their first wobbly steps, and this moment is sure to bring a smile to both seasoned chicken enthusiasts and those who might be a bit chicken themselves. Whether you're a proud new parent to these pint-sized peepers or simply an admirer from afar, the arrival of the first chicks invites you to share in the cluck-tastic joy of new beginnings. Join the conversation and celebrate the egg-citing start of the chick season with us! [link] [comments]

Mystic Marans stole my heart and my morning coffee spot
Who else loves Mystic Marans? This enchanting breed has captured my heart this year, and I can’t get enough of their delightful personalities! Mystic Marans are not just beautiful with their stunning feather patterns, but they are also incredibly friendly. They often join me for cozy chicken cuddle mornings, bringing a sense of warmth and joy to my day. Whether they’re snuggling up beside me or strutting around the yard, their quirky antics never fail to amuse. If you share my obsession with these feathered friends or have your own stories to tell, let’s celebrate the charm of Mystic Marans together! Join the conversation and share your experiences—because who doesn’t love a little chicken companionship?

Meet Our Mystery Mini-Chicken: Clue Us In on Her Dad!
What a delightful conundrum you’ve stumbled upon in your backyard! It sounds like you might have a bantam, which is a miniature version of larger chicken breeds, known for their charming personalities and pint-sized antics. Bantams come in various breeds, each with its own quirks and characteristics, making them both fun and fascinating companions. Given that your hen's mom was small and you have a mix of roosters roaming around, it’s entirely possible she inherited those charming mini traits. Identifying her specific breed can be a bit tricky, but the journey of discovery is egg-citing! So, let’s crack this case wide open and see what feathered friend you’ve got strutting around your yard!
Over 3,000 Names Later, We're Honoring the Chickens Who Left Us Too Soon
Welcome to a little sanctuary dedicated to the chickens we’ll always remember! I’m thrilled to be part of this wonderful community and grateful for the overwhelming response to my recent question about your chickens' names—over 700 messages and more than 3,000 names shared! Each story touched my heart, especially those remembering our feathered friends who have crossed the rainbow bridge. Inspired by these heartfelt memories, I’ve created a virtual chicken sanctuary where you can honor your beloved birds and keep their spirits clucking forever. This project is free, ad-free, and built from my programming passion. I invite you to create your own sanctuary, share your chickens, and let’s celebrate the joy they brought into our lives together! Check it out at https://sanctuary.themachinegg.com/.

Help! My greedy rooster hogs all the feed and leaves nothing for the flock
Ah, the age-old dilemma of the greedy rooster! It sounds like your feathered friend has mastered the art of hogging the feed and might be strutting around like the king of the coop—perhaps a little too confidently. When one rooster takes charge of the buffet, it can leave the others feeling a bit peckish and frustrated. The good news is that there are plenty of egg-citing strategies to ensure all your birds get their fair share. From portion control to feeding techniques, you can help your chubby chap learn some manners while keeping the peace in the flock. Let’s dive into some cluck-tastic tips to help your rooster slim down and share the love (and the food) with his fellow feathered friends!

Sunny, Crow, and Romeo: The morning shift of feathered free-range chaos
Meet my three charming roosters just before I let them strut their stuff in the great outdoors! The sunny fella in front is full of personality, while the dark beauty behind him is Crow, and the ever-dashing lighter one is Romeo. They have their own cozy little run, but from sunrise until about 11:00, they enjoy the freedom of free-ranging. In total, I have six roosters, including these three and two who hang out with my hens. There's also one lone rooster, a bit too much of a jerk to mingle, but stay tuned for his own spotlight post! I know their coop is a tad cramped—thanks to a fallen tree—but I’m on it and working on rebuilding. Wishing everyone a cluck-tastic morning!

My heart's clucking for my rooster, but dubbing is his only hope
Dubbing your rooster can be a daunting decision, especially when you're feeling the weight of his struggles with that oversized comb and waddle. It’s understandable to worry about the potential bleeding and his overall well-being, particularly if he’s having trouble eating and seeing. While a thick comb can complicate the dubbing process, it’s essential to prioritize his health and comfort. Hand-feeding him is a compassionate solution for now, and waiting until you can consult a vet is a wise choice. Your love for your feathered friend shines through, and you’re not alone in seeking advice. Remember, taking the time to gather information is crucial, especially when it comes to your beloved pet’s care. Keep nurturing that bond!

A Feathered Friend Gone Too Soon, My Heart Is Crowing With Grief
Today, my heart feels heavier than a chicken with a full crop. I lost my one and only rooster to a predator attack, and I’m still grappling with the shock of it all. As a devoted poultry lover, these feathered friends are not just animals—they're an integral part of my life and routine. The time and effort I put into caring for them make their loss all the more painful. My rooster wasn’t just a bird; he was my favorite companion, and his lively presence brought so much joy to my days. Now, I’m left with a void that feels impossible to fill. Rest in peace, buddy. Your clucks and antics will be deeply missed. 🥺