Chickens near their coop

15 Reasons Why Chickens Shake Their Heads: Understanding Chicken Behavior

G’day Green Thumbs

As a chicken owner, I have noticed that my chickens shake their heads from time to time. While it may seem like a harmless behavior, it can be an indication of an underlying issue. 

In this article, I will explore 15 reasons why chickens shake their heads, so you can better understand your feathered friends and ensure their health and well-being.

Understanding chicken behavior is key to identifying the reasons behind head shaking. Chickens have a range of behaviors that are normal, such as preening, scratching, and dust bathing. 

However, when a chicken shakes its head excessively, it may be a sign of an issue. Some of the common causes of head shaking include infections, parasites, and allergies. It can also be a result of stress, poor diet, or environmental factors.

In this article, we will delve into the possible reasons why your chickens may be shaking their heads. We will also discuss the symptoms to watch out for and the preventive measures and treatments you can take to keep your chickens healthy and happy. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of chicken behavior and be equipped with the knowledge to identify and address any issues that may arise.

3 Important Things To Know

  • Head shaking in chickens can be a sign of underlying issues such as infections, parasites, and allergies.
  • Understanding chicken behavior is key to identifying the reasons behind head shaking.
  • By taking preventive measures and seeking treatment when necessary, you can keep your chickens healthy and happy.

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Why Chickens shake their heads is a common question. This is a flock of happy and healthy chickens with no underlying issues
Flock of happy chickens and roosters

Understanding Chicken Behavior

As a chicken owner, I have come to learn that chickens have a unique way of communicating with each other. Understanding their behavior is crucial in ensuring their welfare and productivity. In this section, I will discuss some common chicken behaviors and what they mean.

Head Shaking

One common behavior that chickens exhibit is head shaking. There are several reasons why chickens shake their heads. Before we get into our list of 15 reasons why chickens shake their heads, here is my top 5!

ReasonExplanation
To get rid of mitesChickens shake their heads to remove mites that may be crawling on their skin.
To dry their earsChickens have a gland behind their ears that secretes oil. When they shake their heads, they spread the oil around to keep their ears dry.
To adjust their cropChickens have a crop, which is a pouch in their digestive system where food is stored. When they shake their heads, they are adjusting the position of the food in their crop.
To relieve stressChickens may shake their heads when they are nervous or stressed. It is a way of releasing tension.
To show dominanceChickens may shake their heads as a way of asserting their dominance over other birds.
Point of lay chicken on my daughters head.
Point of lay chicken on my daughters head

15 Common Causes of Head Shaking In Chickens

As a chicken owner, I have noticed that chickens shake their heads for various reasons. Here is an in depth look at why chickens shake their heads with 15 possible reasons:

  1. Parasites: Parasites such as mites and lice can cause irritation and discomfort to chickens, leading to head shaking.
  2. Infection: Infections such as ear infections and respiratory infections can cause discomfort and pain, leading to head shaking.
  3. Crop Impaction: Crop impaction occurs when the crop, a part of the chicken’s digestive system, becomes blocked. This can cause discomfort and pain, leading to head shaking.
  4. Vitamin E Deficiency: Vitamin E is essential for the proper functioning of a chicken’s nervous system. A deficiency in vitamin E can cause neurological symptoms such as head shaking.
  5. Allergies: Chickens can be allergic to various things such as dust, pollen, and certain types of feed. Allergies can cause irritation and discomfort, leading to head shaking.
  6. Injury: Head shaking can also be a sign of injury, such as a head injury or a wound on the head.
  7. Stress: Chickens can experience stress from various sources such as overcrowding or changes in their environment. Stress can cause discomfort and anxiety, leading to head shaking.
  8. Dehydration: Dehydration can cause discomfort and can lead to neurological symptoms such as head shaking.
  9. Toxicity: Exposure to toxins such as pesticides and chemicals can cause neurological symptoms such as head shaking.
  10. Heat Stress: Chickens can experience heat stress in hot weather, which can cause discomfort and neurological symptoms such as head shaking.
  11. Cold Weather: Cold weather can also cause discomfort and neurological symptoms such as head shaking.
  12. Genetic Disorders: Some genetic disorders can cause neurological symptoms such as head shaking.
  13. Age: As chickens age, they may experience neurological symptoms such as head shaking.
  14. Diet: A poor diet can lead to vitamin deficiencies and other health problems that can cause neurological symptoms such as head shaking.
  15. Behavioral Issues: Chickens may develop behavioral issues such as feather pecking or aggression, which can cause stress and discomfort, leading to head shaking.

In conclusion, head shaking in chickens can be caused by various factors such as parasites, infection, crop impaction, vitamin E deficiency, allergies, injury, stress, dehydration, toxicity, heat stress, cold weather, genetic disorders, age, poor diet, and behavioral issues. As a chicken owner, it is important to monitor your chickens for any signs of discomfort or illness and to seek veterinary care if necessary.

It’s also super important to observe chickens and their behaviors BEFORE you buy! Here’s our top 9 questions to ask before you purchase chickens. 

Baby chickens in incubator
Baby chickens in incubator

Other Behaviors

Apart from head shaking, chickens exhibit several other behaviors that may be indicative of their health or mood. Here are some of them:

  • Walking backward: This behavior is common in roosters and is often a sign of aggression. Roosters may walk backward while flapping their wings to intimidate other birds.
  • Nervousness: Chickens may become nervous when they are in unfamiliar surroundings or when they sense danger. They may start pacing back and forth or flapping their wings.
  • Squawk: Chickens use squawks to communicate with each other. A loud, high-pitched squawk may indicate that a chicken is in distress or that it has found food.

In conclusion, understanding chicken behavior is essential in ensuring their well-being. By observing their behavior, you can tell when they are happy, stressed, or sick. Head shaking is just one of the many behaviors that chickens exhibit, and it is important to know what it means to provide the best care for your birds.

Effects of Infections and Parasites

When chickens shake their heads, it may be a sign of an infection or parasite infestation. These conditions can cause discomfort and irritation, leading to head shaking behavior. Here are some possible infections and parasites that may affect chickens and cause them to shake their heads:

  • Mites and Lice: External parasites such as mites and lice can cause itching and irritation to a chicken’s skin, leading to head shaking and scratching. These pests can be found in the feathers, skin, and ears of chickens, and they can quickly spread to other birds in the flock.
  • Ear Infection: An ear infection can cause a chicken to shake its head in an attempt to alleviate the pain and discomfort. This condition is often caused by bacteria or fungi and can lead to hearing loss if left untreated.
  • Respiratory Infection: A respiratory infection can cause a chicken to shake its head to clear its airways. This condition can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and can result in symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and wheezing.
  • Crop Impaction: A crop impaction occurs when a chicken’s crop becomes blocked with food or other material, causing discomfort and pain. Head shaking may be a sign that the chicken is trying to dislodge the blockage.
  • Parasite Infestation: Internal parasites such as worms can cause a range of symptoms in chickens, including head shaking. These parasites can affect the digestive system, respiratory system, and other organs, leading to discomfort and illness.

It’s important to note that infections and parasite infestations can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene practices and providing a clean and healthy environment for chickens to live in. Regular health checks and treatment by a veterinarian can also help to prevent and treat these conditions.

Toddler holding freshly collected eggs from Hyline Brown Chickens
Toddler holding freshly collected eggs from Hyline Brown Chickens

Symptoms to Watch Out For

As a chicken owner, it’s important to keep an eye on your birds for any signs of illness or discomfort. Here are some symptoms to watch out for that may be related to head shaking:

  • Sneezing and coughing: If your chicken is shaking its head and also sneezing or coughing, it could be a sign of respiratory illness. Common respiratory diseases in chickens include infectious bronchitis, mycoplasma, and avian influenza. It’s important to isolate any sick birds and seek veterinary care if necessary.
  • Closing eyes: If your chicken is shaking its head and also closing its eyes frequently, it could be a sign of eye irritation or infection. Chickens are prone to eye infections like conjunctivitis, which can cause redness, swelling, and discharge. Keep an eye on your bird’s eyes and seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of infection.
  • Lethargy: If your chicken is shaking its head and also seems lethargic or uninterested in food or water, it could be a sign of illness. Chickens can become lethargic due to a variety of illnesses, including bacterial infections, parasitic infections, and viral diseases. Monitor your bird closely and seek veterinary care if necessary.
  • Eye issues: If your chicken is shaking its head and also rubbing its eyes or has discharge coming from its eyes, it could be a sign of eye irritation or infection. Eye infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of eye infection in your birds.

These are just a few of the symptoms to watch out for if your chicken is shaking its head. It’s important to monitor your birds closely and seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of illness or discomfort. By staying vigilant and taking good care of your chickens, you can help keep them healthy and happy for years to come.

Role of Diet and Environment For Chickens

The diet and environment of chickens can play a significant role in why they shake their heads. Here are some possible reasons:

  • Food: Chickens may shake their heads if they encounter an unfamiliar or unpleasant taste in their food. This could be due to spoiled or moldy food, or a change in their diet. In some cases, chickens may also shake their heads if they have a vitamin or mineral deficiency.
  • Water: Similarly, chickens may shake their heads if they encounter an unfamiliar or unpleasant taste in their water. This could be due to contaminants in the water, or a change in the source of their water. Chickens may also shake their heads if they are dehydrated or have difficulty drinking due to beak or mouth problems.
  • Bedding: Chickens may shake their heads if they encounter dust or other irritants in their bedding. This could be due to poor quality bedding, or inadequate cleaning of their coop. Chickens may also shake their heads if they have mites or other parasites in their bedding.
  • Chicken Coop: The design and maintenance of the chicken coop can also affect why chickens shake their heads. Poor ventilation can lead to a buildup of dust and other irritants in the air, while excessive moisture can lead to mold and other problems. Chickens may also shake their heads if they are overcrowded or stressed due to poor living conditions.
  • Other Factors: Other factors that can affect why chickens shake their heads include parasites, illness, injury, and stress. Chickens may also shake their heads as a natural behavior to clear their ears or remove debris from their feathers.

Understanding the role of diet and environment in why chickens shake their heads can help you identify and address potential problems in your flock. By providing your chickens with a healthy diet, clean water, and a comfortable living environment, you can help ensure that they stay happy and healthy.

Prevention and Treatment

As a responsible chicken owner, it is important to understand the various reasons why chickens shake their heads. Prevention is always better than cure, so it is essential to take steps to prevent the underlying causes of head shaking in chickens.

Here are some measures that can be taken to prevent head shaking in chickens:

  • Keep the coop clean and dry to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infections.
  • Provide a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to keep the chickens healthy and strong.
  • Avoid overcrowding in the coop as it can lead to stress, which can weaken the immune system and make chickens more susceptible to infections.
  • Provide clean water at all times to prevent dehydration and to flush out toxins from the body.
  • Quarantine new birds before introducing them to the flock to prevent the spread of diseases.
  • Regularly inspect the birds for signs of illness and treat them promptly to prevent the spread of infections.

If a chicken is already shaking its head, it is essential to identify the underlying cause and treat it promptly. Here are some common treatments for head shaking in chickens:

  • If the head shaking is due to an ear infection, antibiotics may be prescribed by a veterinarian to treat the infection.
  • If the head shaking is due to mites or lice infestation, ivermectin may be used to kill the parasites.
  • If the head shaking is due to a respiratory infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
  • If the head shaking is due to a fungal infection, antifungal medication may be prescribed to treat the infection.
  • If the head shaking is due to an injury, the wound should be cleaned and treated with an antiseptic to prevent infection.

It is important to consult a veterinarian if the head shaking persists or if the chicken shows other signs of illness. A veterinarian can diagnose the underlying cause of the head shaking and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure. By taking steps to prevent the underlying causes of head shaking in chickens, you can keep your birds healthy and happy.

Happy Chicken exploring outside their home made chicken coop
Happy Chicken exploring outside their home made chicken coop

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do chickens shake their heads?

There are several reasons why chickens shake their heads. One common reason is to remove dirt, debris, or parasites from their feathers. Chickens may also shake their heads to relieve itchiness or irritation on their skin or feathers. Additionally, head shaking can be a sign of a respiratory infection or other health problem.

What causes chickens to shake their heads?

Chickens may shake their heads due to a variety of reasons. Some common causes include parasites, respiratory infections, allergies, or skin irritations. Chickens may also shake their heads as a natural behavior to keep their feathers clean or to relieve itchiness.

Is head shaking a normal behavior for chickens?

Head shaking can be a normal behavior for chickens, especially if they are trying to remove dirt or parasites from their feathers. However, if the head shaking is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing or sneezing, it may be a sign of illness.

Do all chicken breeds shake their heads?

Yes, all chicken breeds may shake their heads for various reasons. However, some breeds may be more prone to certain health problems that can cause head shaking, such as respiratory infections.

How can I tell if my chicken’s head shaking is a sign of illness?

If your chicken’s head shaking is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or discharge from the eyes or nose, it may be a sign of illness. Additionally, if your chicken is lethargic or not eating or drinking normally, it may be a sign of a more serious health problem.

What can I do to help my chicken if it has a head shaking problem?

If your chicken has a head shaking problem, it is important to identify the underlying cause. If the head shaking is due to parasites, you may need to treat your chicken with a parasite medication. If the head shaking is due to a respiratory infection, your chicken may need antibiotics or other medical treatment. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment for your chicken’s specific health problem.

In conclusion, there are several reasons why chickens shake their heads (up to 15 in fact!). 

Some of the reasons include impacted crop, respiratory issues, vitamin E deficiencies, and ear mites or lice. Chickens may also shake their heads to break up food or to see clearly. 

It’s important for chicken owners to be aware of these reasons so that they can take appropriate action if necessary. If you notice your chickens shaking their heads frequently or if you are concerned about their health, it’s best to consult a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. 

Overall, understanding why chickens shake their heads can help ensure their health and well-being. We hope this detailed guide helps you establish why your chickens shake their heads.

Now to get back into the garden!

Let’s get digging

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