Large crops, but happy hens?

[Slamoureux]

New chicken owner question! I noticed this week that both of my Colombian Rock hens (5 months old) seem to have really large crops compared to my other birds. They are both active, eating and drinking, and come running for treats. The crops feel soft, not lumpy, similar to the other birds, and I didn’t notice any foul odour. Is this just normal for them?? This is my first experience with chickens and I love them, I don’t want to cause them any harm through my own ignorance! Thanks!

 

[nuthatched]

Most chickens eat about 3-5 oz of food a day, maybe some breeds have a larger crop? As long as the crop is empty in the morning, they're probably fine.

 

[CalBickieMomma]

What @nuthatched said. Some of my girls really stuff their crops just before bed, and some it seems like they fill up only halfway. If they feel firm (usually I can feel their food pellets in there and if I put a little pressure on the full crop it gives a little (kinda like play dough with small chunks)). If they feel really squishy, like full of water or gas, they could have sour crop. But they look alert and happy in your pictures, so they’re probably just fine .

 

[cherrynberry]

View attachment 2830600View attachment 2830598New chicken owner question! I noticed this week that both of my Colombian Rock hens (5 months old) seem to have really large crops compared to my other birds. They are both active, eating and drinking, and come running for treats. The crops feel soft, not lumpy, similar to the other birds, and I didn’t notice any foul odour. Is this just normal for them?? This is my first experience with chickens and I love them, I don’t want to cause them any harm through my own ignorance! Thanks!

Thats normal. As long as it is all gone by the morning that is. I free feed, like many other people do, and chickens are great at keeping themselves full, but not super stuffed. They eat about half a cup each. Its good to get into the habit of checking their crops every morning though.

 

[meg_warriner]

As long as the crops are smaller in the morning I wouldn’t be concerned. It is common for them to go to bed with larger crops and they should clear overnight.

 

[Slamoureux]

Yep, everyone was right! Apparently the ladies just pig out when they free range in the evening, they look fine this morning. Thanks for the reassurance, I really appreciate it!