Severly crooked beak...trim or cull?

[Shannonwbl]

I have a chick (about 6wks) that has a severely crooked beak. I have had dozens of chickens and never had this problem. I have haven't seen her eat, but I have not been able to spend much time watching. I have attached a photo or two. Should she be culled or should I try to trim her beak first. If trimming is suggested how? Nail clippers - top to bottom or side to side?

 

[Beaky Buzzard]

I don't know, but it looks pretty bad in the pic. Culling her might be the best for her, but I would get a second opinion...

 

[Shannonwbl]

I was able to catch her and fed her a bit of yogurt. I also took another pic. Poor thing.

 

[Beaky Buzzard]

=(

 

[Eggcessive]

I have heard many people say they will try wetting the food and using tall bowls to help them get the food out. If they can eat on their own, they usually keep them. I will let others give advice on beak trimming.

 

[ten chicks]

I have a chick (about 6wks) that has a severely crooked beak. I have had dozens of chickens and never had this problem. I have haven't seen her eat, but I have not been able to spend much time watching. I have attached a photo or two. Should she be culled or should I try to trim her beak first. If trimming is suggested how? Nail clippers - top to bottom or side to side?

Here is a link to better understand condition.

http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/03/scissor-beak-aka-crossed-beak-what-it.html

 

[Shannonwbl]

Thanks Ten Chicks! That was very helpful and I will give the feeding tricks a go. I have also noticed that she seems to be having trouble grooming herself and is very "flakey". Is that common? I am about to go put a pan of DE out there with her and her run mates.

 

[ten chicks]

Thanks Ten Chicks! That was very helpful and I will give the feeding tricks a go. I have also noticed that she seems to be having trouble grooming herself and is very "flakey". Is that common? I am about to go put a pan of DE out there with her and her run mates.

Trouble grooming herself is a result of scissor beak,but she will adjust. Scissor beak is not a death sentence,as you saw in article. With proper care and slight modifications to living environment,chickens with scissor beak can live long and happy lives.

 

[Shannonwbl]

Thanks - I have grown rather fond of her. I always have rooted for the underdog/chicken.