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Crop is really full on one side, what can I do?

Discussion in 'Emergencies / Diseases / Injuries and Cures' started by beergnome, May 23, 2010.

Most Liked Posts
  1. May 23, 2010 #1
    beergnome

    beergnome In the Brooder

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    Apr 4, 2010
    Austin, Texas
    Hi,

    One of my 2-month old pullets has one side of her crop really full. It doesn't feel hard underneath, but she is definitely lop-sided. I have been letting them out for a few hours nearly every day. And I was giving them grit, though it was pigeon grit, I've found out, so I switched them to crushed granite.

    Is she in trouble? What can I do?

    Thanks!

    Jeff
     
  2. May 23, 2010 #2
    greenfamilyfarms

    greenfamilyfarms Big Pippin'

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    There's only one "side" to a crop, so I wouldn't worry.
     
  3. May 23, 2010 #3
    Kittymomma

    Kittymomma Songster

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    Sep 9, 2009
    Olympia, WA
    She's fine, just really full. If the crop (found on the right side of the chest) doesn't go down overnight then you have a problem, but your girl probably just found some really good treats and stuffed herself.
     
  4. May 23, 2010 #4
    beergnome

    beergnome In the Brooder

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    Apr 4, 2010
    Austin, Texas
    Oh, it just looked really funny. I thought the crop was centered on their breast. They were out running around and I discovered a bunch of black soldier fly grubs and so they had some of those. I can squish the crop around. That's where the grit ends up? Or the gizzard? Birds sure are weird.

    THanks for all the prompt info. I was reading old posts but people respond so quickly here. You guys rule.
     
  5. May 23, 2010 #5
    MotherJean

    MotherJean Songster

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    Apr 9, 2010
    San Juan Islands, WA state
    Grit works in the gizzard. Here's a good link to a govt. page showing the digestive tract of the chicken and explains how this all works.
    http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/27_2705.htm
    Specifically on your question, the crop serves as a holding tank for the food. There's some enzyme action there, but most digestion occurs in the gizzard and thereafter.
     

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