poultry

poultry on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 182 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on poultry 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 poultry, 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.

chickens

Prolapsed vent

chickens

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....

chickens

What can a rooster eat from my kitchen?

## So, Your Rooster's Become a Houseguest? What Can He Eat From Your Kitchen? A rogue rooster staking out territory in your HOA? We get it – it’s cluck-tasticly weird! You're likely wondering if you can offer a little kitchen kindness to your feathered friend without a trip to the feed store. While bugs and worms are a rooster's staple diet, supplementing with safe kitchen scraps is perfectly fine. Think leftover cooked veggies (no onions or avocados!), grains like rice or oats, and even bits of fruit. Just avoid salty, sugary, or processed foods. He's probably quite the adventurer, as showcased in our recent piece, "A handsome prince I met out and about yesterday," where a reader shared a similar unexpected encounter!

Biters
chickens

Biters

## Chicken Chompers: Dealing with Biting Behavior So, you've got chickens with a *cluck-tastic* attitude – and a penchant for nibbling (or worse!). /u/Embarrassed-Gap7803 is experiencing this firsthand after six years of raising feathered friends, including a recent run-in with some Plymouths exhibiting surprisingly aggressive behavior. It's a common, albeit unsettling, challenge: chickens, especially when feeling threatened or asserting dominance, can resort to bites. From knee-jerk reactions to "air jail," they’ve tried various methods with limited success. The key seems to be understanding that this behavior often mirrors their interactions with each other. If you're seeing squaring-off and puffed-up feathers, it's likely a display of dominance. While long pants and gloves offer immediate protection, the question remains: is there a deeper solution?

chickens

Is permanent marker safe to use to mark the date on eggs?

## Permanent Marker on Eggs: A Cluck-tastic Question! So, you're wondering if slapping a date on your eggs with a permanent marker is a good idea? The short answer: probably not! While it *seems* like a simple solution, permanent markers contain chemicals that *could* potentially leach into the eggshell, especially as it sits. We're not saying it's a guaranteed health hazard, but it's best to err on the side of caution with your feathered friends’ bounty. Luckily, there are egg-cellent alternatives! A food-safe pen, like those designed for cake decorating, is a much better choice. You can also use a sharpie *on the carton*, not the egg itself. Want to dive deeper into raising healthy chicks?

Cashew eats a dorito
chickens

Cashew eats a dorito

## Cashew's Chip Craving: A Moment of Fowl Play! Hold onto your hats, folks – and maybe cover your Doritos! Witness the cluck-tastic chaos as Cashew, one of our feathered friends at Peckington Square, indulges in a decidedly *unconventional* snack. Yes, we know chickens shouldn’t be munching on cheesy goodness, LOL, but sometimes you just have to appreciate the absurdity. (Watch with sound on – it's a bit loud!) This unexpected moment perfectly captures the quirky, unpredictable nature of chicken life, proving that even our most diligent layers have a mischievous side. For a deeper dive into the daily happenings at Peckington Square, check out our 24/7 livestream cam!

Satin silkie - salmon faverole hybrid.
chickens

Satin silkie - salmon faverole hybrid.

## Decoding the Satin Silkie-Salmon Faverole Hybrid: A Breeding Puzzle Ever wrestled with the timing of sexing chicks? /u/Zviratkachovam certainly has! Their quest to combine the fluffy charm of Satin Silkies with the rapid sexing ability of Salmon Faveroles has yielded a fascinating, albeit complex, result. Initial crosses produced a mix of black chicks and lighter-colored ones, with intriguing hints of Faverole roo markings in some. The question now is: can crossing one of those lighter, potentially male, chicks back to a Silkie increase the chances of producing a coveted salmon-colored Silkie? This breeding experiment highlights the challenges of hybridizing for specific traits. For a deeper dive into the joys (and rapid growth!) of Silkie roosters, check out our article, "Nimbus the Silkie Roo.

They are so 🥰🥰🥰🥰
chickens

They are so 🥰🥰🥰🥰

## A Windy Day & Indoor Chickens! 🐔🏠 Oh, the chaos! Yesterday’s blustery weather meant our feathered friends needed a cozy indoor retreat – and that retreat happened to be /u/_Jumpy_Panda_'s room! 🥰🥰🥰🥰 We’ve all been there, right? Sometimes, even chicken enthusiasts need a little shelter from the storm. It’s a cluck-tastic reminder that even the most independent chickens appreciate a warm, safe haven. This situation sparked a flurry of delightful (and slightly mad) energy, and we’re loving seeing the shared experiences unfold. For a deeper dive into the vibrant lives of our flock, check out the "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam" – you might just find yourself captivated by their antics!

chickens

How to help her figure out nesting boxes?

## The Case of the Capstone Egg-Layer: Helping a Hen Find Her Nest So, you've got a chicken who's staging an egg-laying rebellion? It’s a cluck-tastic problem, but a cracked egg is *never* ideal! Many keepers encounter a hen who stubbornly prefers a different spot – like those lovely capstone blocks – despite readily available nesting boxes. It's comical, yes, but protecting those precious eggs is key. While some hens eventually come around, a little intervention can help. We'll explore strategies to encourage her nesting box behavior, from subtle nudges to more direct approaches, so you can avoid the heartbreak (and mess!) of cracked eggs. If you're also struggling with rehoming chickens, our article "where can I take chickens I can't raise?

Mystery Chicks
chickens

Mystery Chicks

## Unraveling Your Mystery Chicks! Got a cluck-tastic conundrum? You're not alone! Many chicken keepers find themselves puzzling over the identities of their new feathered friends, especially when sourced from places like Tractor Supply. /u/Sudden-Music29 is seeking our community’s expertise in identifying four young chicks exhibiting creamy white down, yellow legs and beaks, four toes, and distinctive gray head spots. One chick stands out with more white and less patterning than the others. With pea or straight combs (still developing!), and gray wing/tail markings, these chicks present a fascinating puzzle. Let's put our collective chicken knowledge to work and crack this case! For a similar exploration of identifying unique breeds, check out our article, "Satin silkie - salmon faverole hybrid.

chickens

Repaired

A truly cluck-tastic recovery! Witnessing chicken injuries can be unsettling, but our community consistently demonstrates remarkable resourcefulness. User /u/core369147 recently shared a detailed account of repairing a chick’s wound—likely the result of a territorial scuffle—using a saline wash, careful skin stretching, and a touch of super glue secured with medical tape to deter pesky mosquitos. This 20-week update highlights the dedication it takes to care for our feathered friends. For more heartwarming chicken tales, check out /u/Opethfan91’s charming story, "A handsome prince I met out and about yesterday." It’s a testament to the unique personalities that make chicken keeping such an egg-citing adventure!

chickens

Looking for Help Running a Poultry Forum

## Calling All Chicken Connoisseurs! Seeking Forum Leaders Our cluck-tastic poultry forum, egggcellntpoultry.proboards.com, is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our feathered flock! We’re on the hunt for both active Moderators and an experienced Admin to help cultivate a welcoming and engaging space for chicken lovers of all levels. No prior moderation experience is necessary for Moderators – we’re happy to provide training! An interest in poultry is, of course, a definite plus. Admin candidates, however, *do* need proven experience managing online communities. Regular activity and consistent posting are key to keeping the forum vibrant. Interested in helping us build a thriving community? Comment below or send a message!

she's so.... ~green~
chickens

she's so.... ~green~

## The Great Green Chicken Mystery: What's Behind the Emerald Hue? A curious phenomenon has emerged in the chicken-keeping community: chickens turning green! User /u/beroisgreen sparked a lively discussion with a post detailing this unusual coloration, achieved using pet-safe food dye. While the visual is undeniably striking – think *evil fat chickens* rendered in vibrant green – it begs the question: is this harmless fun or something to be concerned about? We're diving into this *cluck-tastic* situation, exploring the science (or lack thereof) behind dyed chickens and offering guidance on responsible practices. For those already contemplating coop design, you might find our discussion on "Anyone have experience with this coop?

chickens

I want to buy a cochinchina as my first chicken

So, you’re clucking with excitement about getting your first chicken – a Cochinchin, no less! That's egg-citing! With a family of four consuming around 4 eggs daily, let's figure out the flock size for you. We generally recommend starting with at least three chickens to ensure a consistent egg supply and provide them with the social interaction they crave. Three Cochins should comfortably meet your family's needs, and give you a few extra for baking or sharing. As a new chicken owner, prioritize a secure coop, predator-proofing, and daily health checks. Don't underestimate the importance of a dust bath area – it's chicken spa time! If you're encountering unexpected chicken behavior, our article "Help: What's happening with my chicken?" offers insights into troubleshooting common issues.

Anyone feel like peanuts?
chickens

Anyone feel like peanuts?

Anyone feel like peanuts? – Never quite have seen an egg quite like it. Submitted by /u/Commercial-Duck-515, this post has the whole community clucking with curiosity! It seems one lucky (or perhaps bewildered) keeper has stumbled upon an egg unlike any other, sparking a flurry of speculation and shared experiences. This is the kind of delightfully strange moment that makes chicken keeping so… egg-citing! We understand that navigating the quirks of our feathered friends can sometimes feel like fowl play, but it’s also what makes it so rewarding. If you’re facing other poultry puzzles, perhaps you’d find some helpful insights in our article, "How to help her figure out nesting boxes?" – a common conundrum for many keepers.

Peckington Square Chicken City Live Cam

Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam

Welcome to Peckington Square Chicken City, your 24/7 portal into the delightfully chaotic world of feathered friends! Prepare for a cluck-tastic experience as you observe our bustling community of chickens – their squabbles, their naps, and their relentless pursuit of the perfect snack. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just curious about these quirky creatures, our livestream offers a unique and endlessly entertaining window into their daily lives. It’s a surprisingly relaxing way to de-stress, we promise! Want a deeper dive into all things Peckington Square? Check out our article, "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam," for even more details and behind-the-scenes insights.

Peckington Square Chicken City Live Cam

Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam

Welcome to Peckington Square Chicken City, your 24/7 livestream portal into the delightfully chaotic world of backyard chickens! Prepare for cluck-tastic moments, egg-citing antics, and maybe even a little fowl play. We’ve set up the cameras to capture every pecking order power struggle, dust bath delight, and unexpected adventure these feathered friends get into. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just curious about the joys (and occasional surprises) of raising chickens, this livestream is for you. Join us for a constant stream of entertainment – just don't be surprised if Pickle pulls a stunt! For a deeper dive into the setup and what to expect, check out our article, "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam."

Peckington Square Chicken City Live Cam

Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam

Welcome to Peckington Square Chicken City, your 24/7 livestream window into the wonderfully chaotic world of feathered friends! Join us anytime to witness the cluck-tastic antics of our resident chickens – from their egg-citing foraging adventures to their surprisingly dramatic dust baths. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry pro or just curious about these quirky creatures, there's always something new to see. We know chickens can be a bit… much. Ever wonder about keeping them comfy? Check out our article, "What Is The Best Temperature For Your Chickens???" for some helpful tips. So, grab a seat, settle in, and prepare for a truly egg-straordinary viewing experience!

Wasn’t expecting Pickle to do that to me😩🤣 #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #BackyardChickens
Krissy’s Chickens

Wasn’t expecting Pickle to do that to me😩🤣 #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #BackyardChickens

Oh. My. Cluck! 🤣 Pickle just redefined “unexpected” – and I’m still laughing (and slightly pecked)! Sometimes these feathered friends have a sense of humor I wasn’t quite prepared for. Join the fun and witness the delightful chaos of backyard chicken life with #KrissysChickens #PetChickens #BackyardChickens. If you’re captivated by the antics of a whole flock, be sure to check out our “Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam” for a constant dose of cluck-tastic entertainment. We've also got a community forum where folks are tackling tricky questions – like what's up with a rooster's comb! – so don’t hesitate to join the conversation.

Peckington Square Chicken City Live Cam

Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam

Welcome to Peckington Square Chicken City, your 24/7 portal into a world of feathered chaos and cluck-tastic fun! Join us live as we observe the daily lives of our quirky residents – from morning dust baths to afternoon squabbles over the best scratch grains. Whether you're a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just delightfully intimidated by these bouncy birds, there's always something egg-citing happening. Prepare for unexpected antics, heartwarming moments, and maybe even a little fowl play. It's a guaranteed dose of lighthearted entertainment, perfect for a quick break or background noise. For a deeper dive into the world of Peckington Square, check out our article, "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam," and prepare to be charmed!

The Happy Chicken Coop

What Is The Best Temperature For Your Chickens???

## What Is The Best Temperature For Your Chickens? Keeping your feathered friends comfortable is key to healthy, happy chickens – and a bountiful egg supply! But what's the *cluck-tastic* ideal temperature range? Generally, chickens thrive between 60°F and 80°F (15°C - 27°C). Below 60°F, they'll huddle and conserve energy, while temperatures above 80°F can lead to panting and heat stress. Chicks, of course, need warmer conditions, typically between 90°F and 95°F (32°C - 35°C), gradually decreasing as they grow. Understanding these temperature needs is essential for providing proper shelter and ventilation. For more insights into chicken behavior, check out our community discussion on "why do my chickens do this when I pet them?" and discover some surprising answers!

why do my chickens do this when i pet them?
chickens

why do my chickens do this when i pet them?

## Why Do My Chickens Do *This* When I Pet Them? Ever notice your feathered friends getting…weird when you offer a gentle pat? A sudden peck, a frantic squawk, or even a full-blown flap-fest? You're not alone! This behavior, while sometimes startling, is often rooted in chicken communication and their quirky personalities. It can range from a sign of affection (yes, really!) to a display of dominance or even a request for more attention. Understanding the nuances of their reactions—a head bob, a wing lift, or a quick nip—can help you decode their "cluck-tastic" responses. Want to dive deeper into chicken antics? Check out our article, "This little shitstain attacked me mid phone call today," for a humorous look at unexpected chicken behavior!

Closed captioned for chickens
chickens

Closed captioned for chickens

## A Cluck-tastic Caption Moment! Sometimes, the internet delivers the most egg-citing surprises. User /u/Swimming_Bowler6193 stumbled upon a hilarious moment while enjoying HBO: closed captions accurately described a scene featuring chickens as “bock bocking!” – and we couldn’t resist sharing the chuckle. It’s a perfect example of the quirky, unpredictable nature of our feathered friends. We all know chickens have a lot to say, even if we’re not always fluent in “cluck.” If you’ve ever wondered about other peculiar chicken behaviors, check out our article, "Why do my chickens do this when I pet them?" for a deeper dive into their fascinating habits. Prepare for more fowl play and delightful discoveries within our community!

I can't believe it! 🥹
chickens

I can't believe it! 🥹

Hold the cluck! 🎉 A truly egg-cellent story from our community! User /u/anet_12468 recently shared an unbelievable tale of resilience amidst a recent heatwave. After fearing the worst – that a scorching spell had impacted her hens’ eggs – they discovered a miraculous surprise: two chicks hatched from a clutch of six! One hen, Pippa, even managed a second brood this year, defying expectations. It’s a testament to the tenacity of these feathered friends, and a heartwarming reminder that even in challenging conditions, life finds a way. Witnessing such determination is simply cluck-tastic! Want to observe chicken behavior firsthand? Check out our "Peckington Square Chicken City Livestream 24/7 Cam" for a constant feed of feathered antics.