Common Diseases & Conditions Archives

Sour Crop: The Name Says It All!

Joseph Gendreau2023-11-17T19:30:27-08:00

From the name “sour crop” you can deduce the anatomical location (aka the crop) and the smell (aka sour). What and where is the crop? The crop is a pouch (see Figure 1) just “south” of the esophagus, used for softening feed and temporary food storage in prey species (predator avian species typically do not have a crop) of birds including chickens. The purpose of the crop is to allow a bird to quickly swallow what food it can, store it in the crop, then fly to safety and digest the meal. Food enters the crop after exiting the esophagus

Sour Crop: The Name Says It All!Joseph Gendreau2023-11-17T19:30:27-08:00

Keeping Your Flock Cool: Assessing and Reducing Heat Stress in Backyard Chickens

Joseph Gendreau2023-07-19T14:06:57-07:00

Just like us humans, heat stress can be a major concern for backyard chickens. Poultry, particularly chickens, are susceptible to heat-related issues, which can lead to reduced egg production, poor growth, and even fatalities if not properly managed. Understanding how to assess and reduce heat stress is essential to ensure the health and well-being of your flock. In this article, we'll delve into the basics of identifying heat stress in chickens and implementing effective measures to keep your feathered friends cool and content. Identifying Heat Stress in Chickens Chickens are most comfortable in temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to

Keeping Your Flock Cool: Assessing and Reducing Heat Stress in Backyard ChickensJoseph Gendreau2023-07-19T14:06:57-07:00

How to Interpret Misshapen Eggs

Joseph Gendreau2023-04-27T23:03:34-07:00

Misshapen eggs from chickens can be caused by a variety of diseases, conditions, and environmental factors. Here are some of the most common causes of misshapen eggs: Infectious bronchitis: This is a viral respiratory disease that affects chickens and can cause misshapen eggs, as well as reduced egg production and fertility. Egg drop syndrome: This is a viral disease that can cause soft-shelled, misshapen, or shell-less eggs. This disease can also cause a decrease in egg production. While the virus is naturally occurring in waterfowl such as ducks and geese, EDS occasionally finds its way into domestic chickens Avian influenza:

How to Interpret Misshapen EggsJoseph Gendreau2023-04-27T23:03:34-07:00