chickens
chickens on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 2945 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.
Lola in the background like "shit, what did I miss?!"
Meet Lola, the feathered friend who always seems to be just a step behind! While the other four chickens were busy striking their best poses for the camera, Lola was busy on a scavenger hunt behind the waterer. As I attempted to capture the perfect shot, she popped out with a look of sheer bewilderment—like she had just realized she missed the cluck-tastic moment happening right in front of her! Her expression was priceless, a mix of confusion and a hint of regret, as if she were thinking, “Wait, what did I miss?!” This delightful moment perfectly captures the quirky charm of chicken life, reminding us that sometimes, it’s the unexpected antics of our feathered friends that truly make the day egg-citing!
My hen is making a weird wheezing sound, is it a respiratory infection?
If your hen is making a peculiar wheezing sound but seems to be acting normally otherwise, it might raise a few feathers and questions. Respiratory issues in chickens can be a bit tricky to diagnose, especially when they appear otherwise healthy. While wheezing can indicate a respiratory infection, it’s important to consider other factors such as environmental irritants or even the possibility of an allergy. Observing her behavior, appetite, and the presence of any additional symptoms will be crucial in determining the right course of action. Don’t chicken out on monitoring her closely, as early intervention can make a world of difference. Let’s dive into the potential causes and what you can do to help your feathered friend feel cluck-tastic again!
Wondering age and breed
Wondering about the age and breed of your little feathered friends? You’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts find themselves guessing the age of their chicks, especially when those tail feathers start to peek out. If you’re estimating around 10 days to 2 weeks, that sounds spot on! At this age, chicks are full of energy and personality, ready to explore their surroundings. As for the breed, identifying it can be quite the adventure, given the variety of colors and patterns chickens can have. Share a description or a photo, and let’s dive into the delightful world of poultry identification together. After all, every chicken has a unique story, and we’re here to help you uncover theirs!
I found a young chick
Oh, cluck! It sounds like you’ve found yourself in quite the feathered pickle! Taking care of a young chick can feel like a delightful yet exhausting adventure, especially when you’re figuring it out on the fly. It’s heartwarming that you couldn’t leave the little one alone, but it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed—after all, we’ve all been there, right? You're doing a fantastic job by ensuring it’s healthy, eating, and pooping like a champ! While you may not have all the answers just yet, there’s a community of chicken lovers ready to lend a wing. Let’s dive into how you can support your new feathered friend while keeping your sanity intact—because you both deserve a little cluck-tastic care!
is this normal for a baby chick?
Welcome to the whimsical world of chick care! It’s completely normal to have a few questions and concerns, especially as a first-time chicken owner. You’ve just welcomed your feathered friend, and it sounds like she’s settling in with a bit of a quirky twist. Lethargy and twitching can raise some eyebrows, but don’t fret just yet! Chickens, especially babies, can have their own unique behaviors. While it’s great to be mindful of potential vitamin deficiencies, it’s also important to observe her overall eating habits and droppings, as those can tell you a lot about her health. Let’s dive into this together and ensure your little chick is cluck-tastic in no time! Fellow chicken enthusiasts, your insights are more than welcome!
Chocolate Orp?
Hey fellow chicken enthusiasts! It’s time for a cluck-tastic breed question that’s got me scratching my head! I recently welcomed some adorable chicks labeled as chocolate Orpingtons from the infamous TS—premium pullets, no less. But here’s the twist: one of my little ladies has feathered feet, and I’m pretty sure chocolate Orpingtons don’t come with that fancy feature! To add to the mystery, she and her two companions are significantly smaller than my other chicks of the same age. Could they be a surprise mix, or is there more to these feathered friends than meets the eye? Let’s put our heads together and figure this out! Any insights would be greatly appreciated! 🐔💖
Does anyone know where to get white crested red polish in the US?
Are you on the hunt for those fabulous white crested red Polish chickens in the U.S.? You’re not alone! Many chicken enthusiasts, including our friend /u/Tiger248, have found themselves navigating a maze of online listings that seem to only lead to European sources. The question on everyone’s beak is: do these stunning birds even exist stateside? Plus, there’s the mystery of their size—are they exclusively available in bantam, or can we find them in the larger fowl variety too? If you have tips, leads, or even just some cluck-tastic insights about finding these feathered friends, let’s gather 'round and share the knowledge! Your input can help turn this quest into a community adventure.
What’s everyone’s favorite chicken breed?
Calling all chicken enthusiasts! 🐔 If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about adding some cluck-tastic feathered friends to your flock, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just dipping your toes into the delightful world of poultry, every chicken lover has a favorite breed that steals their heart. From the charmingly quirky Silkie to the egg-citing Rhode Island Red, each breed comes with its own personality and quirks. I’m on a mission to expand my flock, and I’d love to hear your recommendations! Which breeds do you swear by, and what makes them your top picks? Let’s cluck about it and share our fowl favorites in the comments below!
Our blind chick Themis has made it to six weeks
Meet Themis, our remarkable blind chick who has just reached the milestone of six weeks! This feathered friend has shown us the true meaning of resilience and determination. Despite her unique challenges, Themis has embraced life with a cluck-tastic spirit, exploring her surroundings with an unyielding curiosity that leaves us all in awe. Watching her navigate the world is a delightful reminder that every chicken has its own story to tell. Join us in celebrating Themis's journey as she clucks her way into our hearts and proves that even the most unexpected obstacles can lead to egg-citing adventures. Let's cheer her on and share in the joy of her progress—after all, every feathered friend deserves a little extra love and support!
She likes to be held
In the whimsical world of chickens, some feathered friends have a special knack for snuggling! Submitted by u/Ok_Onion2727, this delightful tale captures the charm of a chicken who adores being held. It’s a heartwarming reminder that not all chickens are just about clucking and scratching around; some have a cuddly side that melts our hearts. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or someone who's ever chickened out at the thought of handling these quirky creatures, this story is sure to tickle your funny bone and bring a smile to your face. So, grab your favorite cozy blanket and prepare for some cluck-tastic insights into the affectionate nature of our feathered companions! Join the conversation and share your own experiences!
bantam chick with 2 toes??
Meet the quirky little bantam chick that’s stealing hearts with her unique foot fashion! Recently brought home from the farm store, this feisty feathered friend sports only two front toes on each foot, while one foot boasts an adorable double “thumb” situation. Despite her unusual toe arrangement, she wobbles around with the same gusto as her fellow chicks, happily eating and drinking like a champ. But here’s the million-dollar question: should we be concerned about her little quirks? Has anyone else encountered a chick with such a whimsical foot formation? Join the conversation and share your experiences! After all, in the world of chickens, it’s the quirks that make life egg-citing!
my dearest penelope!
In the delightful world of chicken adventures, "My Dearest Penelope!" captures the whimsical yet relatable journey of a chicken enthusiast navigating the quirky ups and downs of poultry life. Submitted by the charming user /u/wrnpwr, this piece invites us into a heartfelt narrative that blends humor with vulnerability, showcasing the love-hate relationship many of us share with our feathered friends. With a playful tone and engaging anecdotes, it highlights the everyday hilarity and challenges of raising chickens, reminding us that while they may ruffle our feathers, they also bring joy and laughter. Dive into this egg-citing tale and discover the delightful chaos that comes with keeping chickens, proving that sometimes the best stories emerge from the most unexpected experiences. [link] [comments]
Chicks Sleeping On Top of Brooder Plate
It’s an egg-citing time for your "Rustic Rock" and "Americana" chicks as they reach the four-week milestone! Seeing them pile up on top of the brooder plate instead of snuggling underneath is a cluck-tastic sign that they may be seeking a more independent lifestyle. While it seems they are ready to embrace the great outdoors (or at least their cozy coop), it’s important to consider that one little feathered friend is lagging behind in the feathering department. Her slower feathering might mean she still appreciates a bit of warmth. Their happy cheeps and playful pecking indicate contentment, but you might want to keep the brooder plate handy just in case. Let’s dive into their adorable antics and see what these curious chicks are up to!
Fluffy!
Introducing "Fluffy!"—a delightful submission by u/Ok_Onion2727 that explores the whimsical world of our feathered friends. In this charming piece, the author captures the essence of what it’s like to live with chickens, blending humor with heartfelt anecdotes that resonate with both seasoned chicken enthusiasts and those who might be a tad apprehensive about these quirky creatures. With a playful tone and a sprinkle of egg-citing observations, "Fluffy!" invites readers to embrace the delightful chaos that comes with raising chickens. Whether you’re a proud chicken parent or simply curious about the clucking adventures that await, this story is sure to tickle your funny bone and warm your heart. Dive in and enjoy the feathered fun!
Can Turning Compost Harm My Chickens?
Are you a proud chicken parent with a compost bin that your feathered friends adore? It’s a cluck-tastic way to recycle organic waste, but there are some egg-citing concerns to consider! While your chickens may enjoy digging for worms and scraps, the presence of moldy food can raise a few feathers. Moldy feed and spoiled items can pose risks to your girls, so it’s essential to know what to toss in the compost and what to keep out. In this discussion, we’ll explore the potential risks of composting for your chickens, share tips on safe practices, and hear from fellow chicken enthusiasts about their experiences. Let's ensure your composting adventure remains fun and safe for your beloved flock!
16 chicks and counting!
Meet our feathered superstar, a remarkable momma hen who’s taken her parenting skills to a whole new level! Rescued from a neglectful breeder five years ago, she has spent the last few years embracing her broody side, eagerly awaiting the chance to nurture her own little flock. Last year, she proudly hatched a sweet rooster, but this time, she truly outdid herself by welcoming a whopping 16 adorable chicks into the world! Join me in celebrating this cluck-tastic achievement and the joy she brings to our lives. Her journey from rescue to motherhood is a heartwarming reminder of resilience and love in the chicken community. Let’s give a round of applause to this amazing momma and her fluffy new arrivals!
Almost 100°… How Our Chickens Deal With the Heat 🐔☀️
When the temperature soars close to 100°, our feathered friends face a real cluck-tastrophe! Chickens may be resilient, but they aren't immune to the sweltering heat. As temperatures rise, it’s essential to understand how our playful pals cope with the sizzling sun. From seeking shade to indulging in refreshing dust baths, chickens have their own quirky strategies for keeping cool. In this egg-citing exploration, we’ll dive into the fascinating behaviors and clever adaptations our chickens employ to beat the heat. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or a casual chicken admirer, join us for some light-hearted insights and tips to ensure your flock stays happy and healthy during those hot summer days. Let’s keep those feathers cool and spirits high!
First Chicks!
Hello, chicken enthusiasts! I’m thrilled to share that I’ve officially joined the flock-raising crew! Last Friday, I welcomed my first feathered friends from BigR, and I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and a dash of anxiety—fingers crossed none are roosters! My little ladies include two Orpingtons (one black and one lavender, I think), two Blue Australorps, two Cream Legbars, and two Black Majesty Marans. I opted for a colorful variety to discover which breed tickles my fancy before fully committing. It’s only been five days, and I’m already in awe as they sprout their wing feathers! Check out some adorable pics from their first day home, a couple of days in, and today. Let's cluck and celebrate this egg-citing adventure together!
URGENT chicks in school class potential illness
Oh no, it sounds like you’ve got a feathered friend in a bit of a pickle! First off, it’s great that you’re concerned about the health of your soon-to-be chicks. Cold feet and diarrhea—especially with no blood—can sometimes point to a need for electrolytes, which you’re already on top of. If you can pick up the chick with concerns a day early, that might be a wise move to give it some TLC and monitor its condition. Keeping it separated from the others, even just temporarily, could help prevent any potential spread of illness. Don’t forget to consult with someone knowledgeable, like your teacher or a vet, to get tailored advice. You’re doing an egg-cellent job caring for your feathered friends!
My little babies are figuring out their wings!
Today was an egg-citing day for my little feathered friends as they took their first wobbly steps into the great outdoors! Watching my adorable flock flap their wings and explore their new surroundings was an absolute delight. I’m raising a delightful mix of ayam cemanis, black and white silkies, fleur d’uccles, a black copper maran, silver-laced Wyandottes, and a lavender Orpington. While I already have some fantastic layers in my coop, this time I’m all about adding a splash of ornamental charm to my yard. Each one of these quirky birds has its own personality, and I can’t wait to see how they grow and flourish—both in feathers and confidence! Join me on this cluck-tastic journey! 🩷
Do chickens hiccup? What’s wrong with my mom’s chicken?
Ever found yourself wondering if chickens can hiccup? You’re not alone! Chickens, those feathery bundles of quirkiness, can indeed experience strange sounds that might resemble hiccups. If your mom’s chicken is making unusual noises, it could be a sign of something more than just a clucky personality. From dietary issues to respiratory troubles, various factors could be at play. In this fun yet informative exploration, we’ll dive into the peculiar world of chicken vocalizations and what they might mean for your mom’s feathered friend. So, let’s put on our chicken detective hats and explore the cluck-tastic mysteries of chicken health together! Your mom’s chicken will be back to its egg-citing self in no time!
NPIP!? Those who have gotten NPIP certified what was the process like? Will they judge me for not having esthetically pleasing coops!?
Curious about the NPIP certification process? You’re not alone! Many chicken keepers wonder what to expect when their feathered friends are up for inspection. If you've seen coops adorned with wallpaper and chandeliers, you might feel a tad self-conscious about your own setup—especially if yours is a cozy, mismatched creation made from pallets and scrap wood. Fear not! The NPIP inspectors are primarily focused on assessing the health and cleanliness of your birds, rather than critiquing your coop's aesthetics. While they do look at overall conditions, the main goal is to ensure your flock is healthy and happy. Join the conversation and share your experiences, as well as any tips for navigating the NPIP process with confidence and a touch of humor!
My Sweet Cinnamon is gone
Today, I’m heartbroken to share that my beloved golden comet, Cinnamon, has passed away from natural causes. We rescued her a year ago, and during that time, we did everything we could to give her a happy life. She was more than just a chicken; she was my faithful friend who adored humans far more than her feathered companions. Cinnamon had a quirky charm—she wasn’t the brightest, but she certainly was special. Always following me around, she loved to pose for the camera and would gently groom me with her little pecks. I hope she knows how deeply loved she was. Now, I can only imagine her enjoying infinite treats in chicken heaven. Rest in peace, sweet Cinnamon. You truly were one of a kind.
This may be a dumb question, But what is the point of "Nesting herbs"
Nesting herbs might seem like a quirky trend, but they actually serve a delightful purpose beyond just making your coop smell fabulous! These aromatic plants, like lavender and chamomile, can enhance the comfort of your feathered friends while providing a few health benefits too. When added to bedding, nesting herbs can help deter pests and promote a cozy environment for your hens to lay their eggs. Plus, the gentle scents can create a calming atmosphere, easing any stress your chickens might feel. So, while it's certainly a treat for human noses, the benefits for chickens are more than just a pretty aroma. Dive into the world of nesting herbs and discover how they can be a cluck-tastic addition to your coop!