Raising Game Birds by Mavis Harper

Author:Mavis Harper
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC
Published: 1984-03-25T16:00:00+00:00

Debeaking and Cannibalism

Game birds have very sharp beaks that must be trimmed from time to time. Chukar, especially, grow long beaks that interfere with their ability to pick up feed. Pheasants have very strong and damaging beaks. Males should have a quarter of the top mandible clipped to prevent cannibalism and to keep them from harming the females during the mating season. Once started in a flock, cannibalism is hard to control.

If it becomes a problem, put a bushy limb or the top of a pine tree in the pen. This will distract the birds and give the victim a place to hide. Another basic step is to provide high-protein feed. Using antipick lotion and providing various fruits and vegetables, grain, and mineral blocks are also very helpful.

Excessive beak trimming can cut the productivity of the bird. For example, successful mating may be hindered if the male has a sore beak. Do the debeaking before the mating season. You may find, too, that egg production drops after debeaking, because the birds will not pick up as much feed with sore beaks.

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