Trimming the crossbeak beak: recommendations for dremel-type tools?

[texsuze]

Going forward with plans for Blanche, my Meyer Hatchery EE, coming on 14 weeks old. I'd consider her a 'moderate' crossbeak, although I don't know if there is an official/unofficial description of degrees of crossing.

What brand, speed, size, etc. grinding tool is appropriate, if that's the route I take to trim hers? I've seen dog toenail dremel tools at the feed store but not sure if that is the type to consider. If my vet will see her I might take her in for an evaluation and possible light trim. Her upper beak is the one that might benefit from mild intervention at this point.

Blanche is sprightly, brave and on equal terms with her 3 sisters--no bullying, etc. Unfortunately, she gets caught up in the daily excitement of exploration, zooming around and being inquisitive, instead of focusing on eating her mush. But she seems to know that she requires more frequent trips to her mush feeder. However, she is underweight compared to her flock mates. Out of four wonderful EE hens I've had over the past 12 years, Blanche is my first experience with crossbeak.

Thanks for tool suggestions.

 

[MommyGirl]

Does she have trouble eating?
I have a cross beak that doesn’t have any problems eating and I’ve never done anything to her beak! And hers is moderately bad as well

 

[texsuze]

Blanche frequents the food plates but despite observing her, it's difficult to tell how much food she actually ingests. She does better with diced fruits and dried mealworms but works her way through everything. She is thinner than her sisters, so obviously not getting the same volume of food, but she is otherwise active and healthy.

 

[MommyGirl]

I just keep a good eye on mine to make sure she gets enough to eat but l have never had to trim her beak or anything. So maybe if you need to someone else will chime in.