Gaping Hens

[Hessk]

Hello! I’ve had my chickens for about 9months now. I noticed they do this odd thing where they open their mouths while stretching their necks and no sound comes out. This has been going on for about the last 6 months. Since I’m new to chickens I figured it was some strange thing they do. I got to researching it and google came up with gapeworm, however my chickens don’t have any other symptoms. They have big appetites, not lethargic at all, always wanting to walk around and explore. Their combs and waddles are a nice bright color, no sneezing, coughing, no weird noises! Does anyone know what else it could be?

 

[FluffTheDuck]

Hmmm... @Eggcessive @casportpony @Texas Kiki help?

 

[Eggcessive]

It sounds like they are adjusting their crops.

 

[Eggcessive]

Here is a YouTube video of a hen adjusting her crop:

 

[Hessk]

Here is a YouTube video of a hen adjusting her crop:

Oh thank God! I thought we were in trouble. That’s exactly what they do. Just a couple of times then later in the day I’ll see another hen do it a couple times. Thank you so much for replying!

 

[Criticalicious]

If it looks like a burp, that's exactly what it is. When they eat too much, it's uncomfortable feeling.

 

[Eggcessive]

If they do the crop adjusting a lot, check to make sure they are getting poultry granite grit available in a separate container. Also make sure their crops are emptying overnight. They should be empty and flat in early morning before they eat or drink.

 

[Hessk]

If they do the crop adjusting a lot, check to make sure they are getting poultry granite grit available in a separate container. Also make sure their crops are emptying overnight. They should be empty and flat in early morning before they eat or drink.

Ok, I’ll do that. Thank you!