Can someone explain in newbie terms how to trim coturnix beak?

[Emilys3guppies]

I have 6 coturnix hens in a 6sq/ft cage. They are 12 weeks old.

They eat chicken crumbles (18% protein) that I mix, per lb, with 1 cup of ground cat food. They also get boiled egg once a week. So I'm reasonably sure they are getting enough protein.

But one of the hens, in particular, seems set on scalping the others. Will trimming her beak help? If so, how do I do it? With toe nail clippers? Can I do it by myself or do I need to enlist help? How do I get her to open her beak so I only trim the tip of the top? I'm going to search threads for pics...

Thanks for the help, as always.
Emily

 

[miss_thenorth]

I've never done it, but I read somewhere to use finger nail clippers. Please don't take too much off, get someone to help you.

 

[Emilys3guppies]

Thanks, I will get help then.

I understand that if I hit the quick it will bleed so I do have styptic powder on hand (that I've used with my budgies when trimming toenails). I assume I can use that on the birds beak, correct? Hopefully, though, it won't be trimmed enough to need it.

If she doesn't shape up then she'll end up dinner...

 

[Kullas]

Quote:
That was what i was thinking just trim at the neck

Mmmm quail tastes good

 

[JJMR794]

Nail Clippers--- Just Take The Tip 1/16 Th To 1/8th Inch. Are You Abolutely Sure She's A Hen And Not A Roo Breeding The Hens To The Point Of Being Scalped? (just Gotta Ask...)

 

[DLS]

use toe nail clippers. trim the pointed part off . I trim both top & bottom. If it bleads === thats OK it will stop & hurt nothing.

 

[Emilys3guppies]

Quote:
Thank you for including that...that clarifies much for me.