mortality
mortality on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 4 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on mortality 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 mortality, 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'm mad today
Today, we're feeling a bit… ruffled. It’s tough news: we’ve lost another hen, this time due to a heartbreaking reproductive issue. Our vet confirmed it's a sadly common reality for laying hens – sometimes, their own bodies betray them. We’ve now lost three hens to Oviduct problems, each decline swift and unsettling. Despite our best efforts – daily cleaning, predator protection, supplements, vet visits, and diligent tracking of egg production – we can’t always shield them from internal struggles. It’s a raw reminder of the complex relationship we have with these feathered friends and the demands we place on them.
One of my chickens just died from the heat
Losing a beloved chicken is heartbreaking, and we’re so sorry for your loss. It’s completely understandable to feel down, especially when your feathered friends are truly part of the family—as they clearly are for you. Dealing with grief while facing the public at work is incredibly tough, and we send our deepest condolences to you and your family, particularly your little one. Five chickens is still a flock, and each one leaves a unique void. With temperatures soaring to 105+ degrees daily, keeping your remaining chickens cool is paramount. You're already doing a great job with fans, water, and shade! You might also explore evaporative cooling methods. For more quirky insights into chicken care, check out our article, "she's so....
URGENT!! Chickens hatching under broody hen- do I do anything??
## Urgent Hatching Help! A Broody Hen's Surprise Delivery! Panic setting in as your broody hen surprises you with a clutch of hatching chicks? We get it – it’s a *cluck-tastic* situation! While hatching chicks is usually egg-cellent, that early loss has you understandably worried. Don't chickening out! Generally, leaving them to it is the best approach; intervention can often do more harm than good. A light misting with water *can* help if you notice any chicks struggling to break free, but avoid overdoing it. This is a common conundrum, and you're not alone! For a look at some other adorable chicken updates, check out "Young adults!": I promised like a month ago to post these beauties as grown ups.
Please help. ASAP
Losing a chicken so suddenly is understandably shocking, and our hearts go out to you. It's devastating when a seemingly healthy bird declines so rapidly, especially with the distressing symptom of blood in her vomit. Suspecting poisoning is a reasonable concern, given her history of escaping and potential access to harmful substances. While pinpointing the exact cause without a necropsy is difficult, ingestion of toxic plants or chemicals is a leading possibility. The rapid onset and twitching suggest a severe systemic reaction. We understand you’re taking precautions with your remaining flock, and that's wise. For more on the joys and surprises of raising chicks, check out our recent piece, "Chicks VS Grown(ish).