does anyone know about beak deformities?

[PolishGal]

We have 3 white crested polish chicks and one of them is developing a beak that crosses. it seems as though it can still eat. As he grows, it gets worse. Has anyone dealt with this or know of anything that can be done to correct it?

 

[shareneh]

I have a hen who has a crossed beak. We had to cut part of it off for her to eat. because it curls in and makes it impossible to eat. She has no way to pick up food so we place cracked corn in a small ceramic bowl and she shoves her beak into the food and catches a few morsels with her tounge. That's how she eats. She is very skinny but other than that she is good. She is bossy and healthy otherwise.

 

[lorrir]

I have a polish with the same crossed beak. She eats out of the top of the feeder instead of the ring at the bottom. I always make sure the feeder stays full so she gets fed. Would be curious to see how the beak should be trimmed.

 

[spotsplus]

"cross-beak" is genetic. You can trim with a nail file but be careful not to trim too much as it is sensitive deep within. Good luck! T

 

[fourfeathers]

Do a Search on cross beak or crooked beak on here and you will see quite a few posts and tips. I have a BR roo who was born with one and one eye. He does well as long as he has a deep dish to eat out of. I do handfeed him treats. When he was little, it seemed the food would get packed on one side of his beak in the corner and I had to pick it out, but not as much since he is an adult. Start filing the beak early on a little at a time so they get used to it and tolerate your doing this. It is usually a skull deformity.