Is this a crop issue?

[CluckingLucky]

We have an EE hen that is about a year and a half old. A month or so ago we noticed what looked like a red ball on her abdomen. After looking closer, it looks like her crop. After watching her, it doesn’t look like she’s pulling feathers, but that it rubs a bit on the ground as she forages, causing the feathers to fall out. She adjust her crop a lot, with weird head movements.

She’s eating and drinking fine, she lays about 4 eggs a week, and we have grit and oyster shell available at all times. Everyone’s has been getting grower/starter food, since we have some pullets in the flock still. I use oregano oil in with their waterers.

Not really sure if this is something to worry about, or that needs attention.

Any thoughts on what it could be, and possible, non-intrusive remedies?

 

[Saveria]

It does look like slow or impacted crop. She may just be scratching at it. Have you seen this article? Let me know if you still have any questions after you look at it.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...w-to-know-which-one-youre-dealing-with.73607/

I have two hens with crop issues in my flock. It needs some attention, but as long as it isn't caused by a more serious issue she should be fine.

 

[CluckingLucky]

Thank you @Saveria !

I haven’t seen that article, I wasn’t really sure what to call this condition. I will definitely give some of these methods a try. From reading through it, sounds likely to be either sour crop or pendulous crop. It definitely swings around like a pendulum

 

[Saveria]

Yeah, I have a few that need to wear a crop bra most of the year. It seems to go up and down.