Help! 3 week old chicks have almost empty crops??

[jlt045]

They have been completely fine for the past 3 weeks, and are currently showing no signs of illness that I can see. I was playing with them today and noticed that not even one of the 3 have a full crop. One of them has a tiny one and the food can be felt, but it is maybe nickel sized at the most. Usually they have full crops. They are all just as active, no lethargy, not sick looking at all. They are even managing to nearly fly out of my bathtub, and so far one has been able to succeed. What could be wrong?

 

[farm girl 2003]

Do they have s endless supply of food in their cage?. Also some times chickens don't get that till they are older. They sound perfectly fine and just like normal baby chicks. Just keep them hydrated and full of food.

 

[jlt045]

Do they have s endless supply of food in their cage?. Also some times chickens don't get that till they are older. They sound perfectly fine and just like normal baby chicks. Just keep them hydrated and full of food.

Yes, they have food and water all day, and since I am paranoid I am checking several times a day. Its just strange that they suddenly when from having fat pudgy crops to almost flat ones. And half the time I check on them they are eating and bobbing around

 

[csaylorchickens]

What's a crop?

 

[BobDBirdDog]

What's a crop?

The croop is an area where their food is stored as they digest it, much like our stomach. it is located just below the neckline and above the breast.

Here is a BYC ling that might help.
http://forum.backyardpoultry.com/viewtopic.php?t=7957069

 

[farm girl 2003]

Yes, they have food and water all day, and since I am paranoid I am checking several times a day. Its just strange that they suddenly when from having fat pudgy crops to almost flat ones. And half the time I check on them they are eating and bobbing around

. I have raised chicks for 4 years now and that happens to me every time I get chicks but 4 years later they are all alive and thriving

 

[Outpost JWB]

Do you have a light on them? A brooder light encourages eating.

What are you feeding them? At this age they should be on chick starter feed.

What type of chicks are they?