large crop

[mrbstephens]

I went away for a couple of days and when I came back I noticed one of my 16 week old hens has a larger than usual crop. It feels kinda like there's sand in it. She's eating a lot still, but I did notice that her face is redder than usual and she's panting and holding her wings out slightly. Anything I should do here?

 

[Year of the Rooster]

She probably has been eating sand for grit. I don't think you need to worry about it. Also, if her comb is getting redder she may be ready to lay soon. The panting and holding the wings out means she's hot.

 

[mrbstephens]

The run is sandy dirt. She wasn't free ranging while I was away. I've just never seen her crop this big. Could she be eating more, because she may be getting ready to lay?

 

[mrbstephens]

I should add that she's a Light Brahma. Isn't this early for that breed?

 

[Year of the Rooster]

I'm not sure, but I'm thinking it may be... or else it's possibly a rooster

I'm not quite sure.. I hope someone else will chyme in to help. Brahmas are a slow developing breed.

 

[mrbstephens]

I've had an expert on BYC who raises Brahmas for showing who confirmed that she is a pullet.

 

[mrbstephens]

 

[mrbstephens]

I just saw her poop, but it was a tiny bit. Anyone else have any thoughts?