smart
smart on Alektorophobia: a running collection of 169 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on smart 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 smart, 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.

Our $1,500 egg ❤️
## Introducing Our $1,500 Egg ❤️ – A Cluck-tastic First! Get ready for something *egg-citing*! We're absolutely thrilled to announce the arrival of our first edible egg – a truly monumental moment for our feathered friends and, frankly, for us! After considerable dedication and a whole lot of chicken love, this egg represents a significant milestone. It’s a testament to the quirky, sometimes chaotic, but always rewarding journey of raising these wonderful creatures. We know, $1,500 sounds…well, a bit mad! But trust us, there’s a story behind it—and it’s a cluck-tastic one. Want to dive deeper into understanding the diverse personalities of our roosters? Check out our recent article, "Identification," to learn how to tell your boy apart!

In n out with my chicks
## Adventures in Chicken Keeping: A Firsthand Look at Coop Life Welcome to a cluck-tastic peek into the world of backyard chickens! User /u/alphaky1e recently shared their experience – "In n out with my chicks" – and we're egg-cited to share the journey. Navigating the realities of raising chicks can be a whirlwind, full of unexpected delights and, let's be honest, a few ruffled feathers. It’s a shared experience, whether you're a seasoned poultry pro or just starting to explore the joys (and occasional chaos) of feathered friends. Want to dive a little deeper into ensuring your flock thrives? Check out our article, "Do Ducks Get Stressed? Signs, Causes, & How to Help," for expert tips on keeping all your birds happy and healthy.

Vibing with big Henry
## Vibing with Big Henry: A Brahma's Big Personality! Meet Henry, a 10-week-old Brahma with a presence that’s, well, *cluck-tastic*! Submitted by /u/alphaky1e, this post dives into the joys (and perhaps minor challenges) of sharing space with a rapidly growing, undeniably large Brahma chicken. Brahmas are known for their gentle nature and impressive size, and it sounds like Henry is living up to both! We’re loving the glimpse into his world. This post sparks some fascinating questions about raising large breeds, and if you’re concerned about keeping your flock comfortable during rising temperatures, you might find our article, "Chicken and high temperatures," particularly helpful. Join the conversation and share your own experiences with big birds – we’re all in this feathered adventure together!

Hey Hey
Hey Hey, fellow chicken lovers! Submitted by /u/Weak_Fun2724, this post is sure to tickle your feathers and spark a cluck-tastic conversation. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry parent or still navigating your way through the whimsical world of chickens, there's something here for everyone. Dive into the delightful chaos of chicken adventures where humor meets heartfelt moments. If you’re curious about more feathery personalities, check out “Meet Whitney,” where we introduce a diva chicken with a flair for the dramatic! Don’t miss out on the fun—join in the comments and share your own experiences with these quirky feathered friends!

Norbert
Meet Norbert, the feathered friend who’s stealing hearts and ruffling feathers all at once! Submitted by the ever-enthusiastic /u/kam27889, Norbert embodies the quirky spirit of chicken companionship. Whether he's strutting his stuff in the yard or causing a delightful commotion, this charming bird is sure to inspire laughter and maybe a few gasps from those who find chickens both fascinating and a little intimidating. Curious about how to keep your coop safe from sneaky pups? Check out “New door for the walnut brain parade” for tips on keeping those mischievous dogs at bay. Join us in celebrating Norbert and all the delightful chaos he brings to the chicken-loving community!

Show me your Angry Birds.
Get ready to meet Agnes, the feathered sweetheart who’s not as fierce as her name suggests! While she might have a reputation for striking out like an Angry Bird, this timid gal is all about charm and cuddles. Join us as we dive into the delightful world of Agnes and her not-so-scary antics that will make you chuckle and maybe even swoon. And if you’re curious about the feathered family dynamics, don’t miss our article “Maybe roo?”—it’s a cluck-tastic exploration of gender surprises in the coop! Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just a casual observer, Agnes’s story is bound to resonate and bring a smile to your face. Let’s cluck it up!

Brahma gang
Welcome to the whimsical world of Brahma chickens, where feathered friends bring both charm and a bit of chaos to your backyard! Submitted by u/talkingtoawall710, this post dives into the delightful antics of Brahmas, known for their friendly demeanor and impressive size. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just dipping your toes into the clucky realm of poultry, these gentle giants are sure to capture your heart—and perhaps make you chuckle a bit too! If you're curious about how to keep your feathered pals entertained, check out "They love the stick!" for some egg-citing advice on chicken enrichment. Join the conversation and share your own Brahma experiences with us—we can’t wait to hear your stories!

2 thick pieces of bacon, 30 minutes later they are still working on them. Highly recommended.
In a delightful bacon escapade, our friend Phil2822 shares the joy of savoring two thick pieces of bacon that have proven to be a cluck-tastic treat—30 minutes later, and they’re still devouring every crispy morsel! This mouthwatering moment is highly recommended for any bacon enthusiast or chicken lover looking to indulge in a little fowl fun. If you’re curious about other quirky poultry tales, check out “Maybe roo?” where a pullet shows some unexpected rooster vibes. Whether you're in it for the bacon or the chickens, there's plenty to sink your teeth into. Dive into the conversation and let’s celebrate those delicious moments that bring us all together!

Ash having the best day ever
Get ready to cluck with joy as we dive into Ash's incredible day—it's nothing short of egg-citing! Submitted by the ever-fabulous /u/Fancyflock, this tale is a delightful reminder of the whimsical moments that make chicken-keeping such a charming adventure. From unexpected surprises to heartwarming interactions with feathered friends, Ash's best day ever is sure to resonate with both seasoned chicken enthusiasts and those who might still be chickening out. And if you're curious about the joys of owning Polish chickens, don’t miss our related article, "What is it like owning Polish chickens," submitted by /u/SolidExtreme7377. Join us as we celebrate the quirks and wonders of life with our clucky companions!

Danny crowing evolution
Get ready to cluck with delight as we dive into the fascinating journey of Danny’s crowing evolution! Submitted by the ever-curious u/Infamous-Bed-3421, this article explores how one rooster's crow can reflect not just his personality but also his environment and experiences. Discover the quirks and charm of this feathered friend as he transforms his vocalizations into a delightful symphony of sounds. And if you're itching for more chicken chatter, check out "What is it like owning Polish chickens" by u/SolidExtreme7377 for an egg-citing glimpse into the lives of these unique birds. Join us in celebrating the whimsical world of our poultry pals and their irresistible antics!

Mama bluey
Introducing Mama Bluey, a delightful tale of one chicken’s journey that’s sure to tickle your heart and maybe even ruffle a few feathers! Submitted by the whimsical u/Infamous-Bed-3421, this story captures the quirks and joys of chicken-keeping. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just dipping your toes into the cluck-tastic world of poultry, Mama Bluey offers a relatable glimpse into the ups and downs of raising our feathered friends. If you find yourself pondering why your chicks are laying in peculiar positions, you might want to check out our article, "Why is she laying like that????". Join the conversation and share your own chicken stories in the comments!

How old are these silkies?
Wondering how old your silky chickens are? You're not alone! Understanding their age can be as tricky as catching them on a sunny afternoon. Silkies, with their fluffy feathers and charming personalities, often leave us guessing about their life stages. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just starting your chicken journey, knowing their age helps in providing the best care. Plus, it can ease those worries about their health and future egg-laying potential! If you're curious about what to expect from your feathered friends, check out our article, "Skip and Ginger; Queens of the Sploot," where we delve into the antics of young silkies who might just be taking a break from laying. Let’s uncover the mystery together!

I just want everyone to see Cptn. Gary Cheeseman.
Meet Cptn. Gary Cheeseman, affectionately known as Handsome B. Devil! This charming feathered friend is ready to steal your heart—and maybe a few snacks from your backyard. Submitted by the delightful /u/beepbopbippitybop2, this post invites you to bask in the glory of Gary’s unique personality and undeniable charisma. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken enthusiast or just here for the clucking cuteness, Gary’s antics are sure to entertain. If you’re curious about other chicken tales, don’t miss our article on coop upgrades for hot summer days—it’s perfect for keeping your flock cool and comfortable! Join the fun, share your thoughts, and let’s celebrate the quirks of our beloved chickens together!

Tess the Terrorist
Meet Tess the Terrorist, the feathered dynamo that’s sure to ruffle some feathers! Submitted by u/HTD_Bros, Tess is not your average chicken; she’s a whirlwind of mischief and charm that keeps everyone on their toes. With her quirky antics and bold personality, she embodies the delightful chaos that comes with raising our beloved feathered friends. Whether she's launching surprise attacks or plotting her next great escape, Tess is a reminder that chickens can be both hilarious and, well, a bit terrifying! For a peek at another chicken with a larger-than-life personality, check out our article on the 2-year-old índio Gigante rooster. Join the cluck-tastic conversation about our outrageous poultry pals and share your own chicken tales!

Easily one of the coolest barnyard mixes I’ve hatched out
Get ready to cluck with excitement, because we’re diving into one of the coolest barnyard mixes ever hatched! Submitted by the ever-creative /u/SatanikRaccoon, this delightful blend of feathered friends is sure to bring a smile to your face. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken wrangler or just dipping your toes into the world of poultry, there’s something utterly egg-citing about unique barnyard mixes. And if you’re curious about the fine line between hens and roosters, don’t miss our article titled "13 week old black australorp… hen or roo?" for some clucking good insights. So, let’s spread our wings and explore this charming mix together! Your next favorite feathered friend might just be a click away.

Ouch just trying to relax
Sometimes, the quest for relaxation can be hilariously disrupted by our feathered friends! In “Ouch just trying to relax - Stupid 🐔,” submitted by u/bazookagodzilla, we delve into the not-so-peaceful moments when chickens decide to play the role of unexpected party crashers. Whether it’s a raucous cluck or a sudden feathered appearance, these antics are enough to make anyone question their sanity. If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar predicament, you’re not alone! Check out other amusing tales like u/Illustrious-Egg5799's story about a chicken that loves to follow a toddler around. Join the community as we share our love-hate relationship with chickens and embrace the chaos they bring to our lives!

Guess what cockerell gets to stay Long term🤪
Guess what, feathered friends? Our delightful cockerel has officially earned a long-term stay in the coop! 🐓🤪 Submitted by /u/allright_then, this clucky announcement has us all a-twitter with excitement. Whether you're a seasoned chicken whisperer or just beginning your journey into the whimsical world of poultry, there's always something to celebrate in the coop! If you’re curious about the nuances of chicken breeds, don’t miss our article, "What breed is my hen?" where we delve into the delightful diversity of our feathered companions. Join the conversation and share your own stories about your quirky cockerels or any fowl play you’ve encountered! Let's keep the chicken chatter going! [link] [comments]

Sasha the Shuppy
Meet Sasha the Shuppy—a feathered friend who's more than just a clucky companion! Submitted by the delightful u/the_real_mx_p, Sasha is here to steal your heart and maybe a few snacks along the way. Shuppies are known for their quirky personalities and unique looks, making them a joy to have around. If you've ever wondered why chickens sometimes squat like hens, you’re not alone! Check out our article, "Why did this 4 week old little man squat like a hen," for more insights and laughs on chicken behavior. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or just fascinated by these charming creatures, Sasha is sure to bring a smile to your face. Dive in and join the fun!

Tater loves to nuzzle under my arm 💛
Tater has a heart of gold and an affinity for coziness that’s simply irresistible! This lovable chicken has taken nuzzling to a whole new level, often finding her favorite spot right under my arm. It’s a delightful reminder that our feathered friends can be just as affectionate as our furry companions. If you’re lucky enough to have a lap chicken like Tater, you know how much joy they bring—cuddling all day is a tempting offer! For those venturing into the whimsical world of chickens, check out the article "I rescued two chicks!" to see how others have embraced their new feathered friends. Join the fun and share your own experiences with your clucky companions! 💛

Phillis the frizzle.
Meet Phillis the frizzle, our charmingly disheveled feathered friend who’s just emerged from a long winter and an even longer broody spell! Sporting a slightly rough look, she’s a testament to the resilience of our beloved chickens. Whether she’s fluffing her quirky feathers or strutting around the coop, there’s something endearing about her unique style. While she may not be in her prime right now, her personality shines through, reminding us that even the most beloved chickens have their off days. If you’re curious about the daily antics of our feathered friends, don’t miss out on “Peck peck!” where you can see how fast baby chickens grow and their adorable camera-ready moments. Join the fun and celebrate the whimsical world of chickens with us!
Finally caved and got chickens not what I expected at all. Maybe some questions?
So, I finally caved and got chickens, and let me tell you, it’s not what I expected at all! Initially, I was totally against it—who needs extra chores, right? But for the sake of my wife and daughter, I took the plunge. Now, I’m head-over-clucks in love with these feathery companions! We welcomed two Delaware chicks, Plum and Blueberry, two Easter Eggers named Monaco and Skunk, a Buff Orpington called Cookie, and a wild card Rhode Island Red named Gustave. The Delawares are sweethearts, while the Easter Eggers definitely run the show! If you have any tips on breeds or care, please share! And if you’re curious about flock dynamics, check out “One of my favorite pairs in the flock right now!

Chick Pics
Rainy days can be a mixed bag, but when it comes to our feathered friends, they often bring out the best (and quirkiest) moments! In this delightful post, submitted by /u/Impossible-J, we’re treated to beautiful rainy day photos that capture the charming antics of chickens enjoying the drizzle. Whether they’re fluffing their feathers or strutting around like little wet wonders, these images remind us of the joy our chickens bring, even when the skies are gray. If you’re curious about how to keep your girls cool on those hot days, check out our article "How do I keep my girls cool please (how bad is this)?" for some egg-citing tips. Dive into the fun and share your own rainy day chicken tales! ❤️

I am pretty sure Marigold is blind
Is Marigold, your charming Russian Orloff, really blind, or is it just a quirky characteristic of her breed? Chickens can be puzzling little creatures, and Marigold’s behavior might have you scratching your head (or clucking in confusion). It's not uncommon for our feathered friends to exhibit unusual traits, and the Russian Orloff breed certainly has its quirks. Whether she's navigating the coop with a unique flair or simply showing off her own brand of chicken charisma, it's worth exploring the signs of blindness in chickens. While you ponder Marigold's vision, check out our article, "Is Miss Coco in fact, Mister Miss Coco?" for more delightful chicken tales and insights. Join the flock in discovering the playful mysteries of our beloved birds!

I love the feet!
Who can resist the charm of our feathered friends, especially when it comes to their adorable, furry little feet? In a delightful submission from /u/DensuKishaa, we dive into the whimsical world of chicken feet, exploring the quirky love that many chicken enthusiasts share for these often-overlooked features. It's a celebration of the unique traits that make chickens so endearing, fostering a sense of community among fellow fans. If you find yourself giggling at the thought of those tiny toes, you might also enjoy "Me and my chicks chilling," where another enthusiast shares their cozy moments with their precious chicks. Join us in this light-hearted exploration of chicken love, and let's keep the conversation cluck-tastic!