Why is my hens beak like this

[chickencreek]

My 2 year old SLW has a beak that looks like its split

here is a side view (which took 20 minutes to take

why is it like this

 

[nab58]

It's called a cross beak. It's a fairly common deformity in chickens. They can be much worse than what you have. You may be ableto file it down or clip it if the chicken has a problem eating.

 

[chickencreek]

I clip it every time she needs it (which is now) and it doesn't affect her eating at all. Will it ever stop growing or will it stay the same forever.

 

[seminolewind]

It may stay like that or even get worse. I know many people who've had them and they do fine. It's good you're trimming

 

[cafarmgirl]

Since she's done growing it may stay like it is and just need the occasional file or clip like you are doing now. She should be fine with it.

 

[chickencreek]

thanks for the info

 

[JeanR]

Beaks are like finger nails, keep growing, IF they are programed to do so--all chickens beaks do not not require clipping. But if you have one that does (I have several that keep overgrowing at the tip), just trim it with dog toenail clippers--I do, every time I see it getting too long to look like the bird can eat easily. Careful not to clip too short, to make it bleed, just to match the lower beak--but if you do, it will heal and grow again! Good luck.

 

[nab58]

It's also called scissor beak...
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/148981/scissor-beak-fix