UkPigeonRacing

Afternoon, so this morning I've cleaned out my ybs section, I've used Strawmax Horse bedding this year without any problems.So put down a fresh layer on floor, gone back out to feed like I usually do before it gets dark, put trays down & about 6/7 wouldn't come down which I thought that's odd, caught a few & the crop's are rock hard on them all, my only thought is they've eaten some of the smaller pellets. So I only feed 7grams each this morning to feed in ,been out flying for an hour all in ok & 28 grams each tonight.
It's an extruded pellet & usually breaks down with moisture, as I've said I've been happy with this product.
But not if the health of my pigeons is affected, anyone had experience of this with the crops going rock hard or anything I can do, I tried to empty the crop's to try to release it but it's not done anything, any thoughts please.
Regards Dave.

The refusal to come down may just be the new straw?

Hello King, they all fed in the small amount of barley I gave this morning 7grams each pigeon after an hour's fly, all eating up that small amount. None stayed up on the perches, so not sure why they would eat the smaller bits of the pellets but the crops are rock hard. I have minerals black & pink, & fresh grit daily.

I hope they pass all that through them and it does them no harm. They were probably just poking around exploring the new layer and found some that taste nice.
They never cease to worry you

Hi Dave

See what the morning brings, I'm inclined to say let Mother Nature take her course

I'd be hoping that this'll clear itself without any unwarranted intervention

Try not to worry

Thanks Mike.

How are they now Dave ?

Afternoon Mike, so I think 4 out of 5 have improved they don't seem to be blown up as much, so my thoughts on this with them is that they probably didn't eat that much & have gradually digested maybe, but 1 is still blown up crop hard & lower down chest area just as though it's eaten to much corn & crammed it in if you can picture what I'm saying, I don't think it can bring up what's blocking or passing down & out in it's droppings.
Any advice or suggestions Mike.
Regards Dave.

I know its not easy to do Dave, but i'd take no action

4/5 have shown improvement with no action taken

I'd let Mother Nature run her course

You've got grit available for them so that'll help

Yes just sit tight I'm afraid hopefully it will clear. I still can't get my head around they've actually eaten this in the first place.