Cross-beak. Help please.

[wrldlygrrl]

Well, I just finally had to cull Brando, my cross beak EE pullet...at 16 weeks. Her beak just kept getting worse and worse, and I couldn't keep making porridge every day...sometimes twice a day that was keeping her alive. She grew half as much as the others, was anxious about food, as she was obviously starving. I spoke with the state poultry vet (just happened to meet her) who told me it is always genetic. She suggested culling at an early age unless you are for sure never going to breed them and don't mind feeding them something that they can easily scoop into their beaks. They cannot peck, pick at foliage, works, etc.

Sorry...I just had to be reasonable. I have heard, however, of folks (because I posted so much about this pullet) who had successful layers with cross beaks.

Brando RIP

 

[stargirl]

How sad - and scary to watch it happening before your eyes

Someone needs to invent an orthodontic beak brace!

 

[SourRoses]

Will it get worse? Or stay as it is? I would think if it was a genetic issue it would have shown up sooner

If it stays somewhat like it is.... then its not even very obvious.... but I hope it doesent get alot worse like the above posters poor birdie

 

[ReikiStar]

Quote:
So sorry Brando's beak kept getting worse. Sounds like you did the right thing for her. You probably gave her 16 fun filled weeks more than others would have. Gone but not forgotten.