Cross beak Tim

[FamFarmer]

Tim is my cross beak Easter Egger. She is the most feisty hen in the flock and the only one that flies over the 6' fence when she's hungry. She spends the day trying to forage like the others without getting much of anything. Feeding her has been a challenge and a chore. I used to hand feed her (45 min) twice a day with wet food but no longer have time for that. Now I set her up with a round bottom dish and use a piece of 4' fencing to isolate her so the others don't eat her food. When she's done she flies out. I go back after and move the fence so that the others can finish the food or sometimes I have time I'll hand feed her the remainder with a tongue depressor. She can only eat what is in a pile and tends to flatten it out. The round bottom dish helps and I give her about twice a much as she will eat. Her food is organic crumbles and a bit of crushed, dried bsfl softened with water and some liquid from the feed that I ferment for the other hens. Sometimes I'll add some egg, smoothie, or other healthy treat. She does best if I keep her beak trimmed but that is my least favorite chore. It often bleeds even though I'm careful not to remove too much.

 

[troyer]

I've had crossbeaks too, they tend to be among the healthiest most cheerful chickens in the flock. I do the same as you mentioned in making sure they can eat properly.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Wow that's a pretty significant misalignment. Good job in addressing her needs.

 

[MetroMutt]

Such a pretty girl! I have 2 crossbeaks myself and they are my favorites, they have so much personality!