chick with twisted beak

[Rollins2708]

I had a chick born this past Friday with the top of his beak twisted to the side. Bottom part is normal. He isn't growing as the other 10 are that was born at same time. Any suggestions on special feeding or just let him try and learn to deal with it?

 

[Poulets De Cajun]

If its a serious case, I'd recommend culling him, especially if he isn't able to eat. Some birds with minor cases will learn to oversome their disability, but if he already isn't eating, the prognosis probably isn't very good.

 

[Rollins2708]

He is eating some or I think he is. He is always in the feeder. Today he was paste and I cleaned him up so he must be getting some food.

 

[wannabfarmgirl]

I have one that didn't show this until 3 weeks old...when I discovered it, I did a lot of research on BYC and the internet. Most things said if the bird had a serious case, it would eventually need to be culled (my husband would have to do it!!!), but if it's minor, to observe for consistent weight gain, etc.

It sounds like yours may be suffering already if it's smaller than the rest. From what I read, you can separate it from the others, give it a deep dish bowl, and hope for the best. Just be prepared to cull if it suffers.

 

[Rollins2708]

Thanks for the info. I'll keep an eye on it a few more days. I can't stand the thought of having to cull it. My daughter has named it chicken little.