A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Understand flock dynamics, such as pecking order and territorial behavior. Share tips on training birds to come when called, return to the coop, and coexist peacefully.
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VeggieVibes
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A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by VeggieVibes »

This morning, while watching the flock go about their usual routine, something caught my eye. One of the young Buff Orpingtons stood still, stretched her neck out, and gave a sudden twitch. At first, it seemed like a one-off movement, but then she did it again. And again.

Aside from this odd behavior, everything else seemed perfectly normal. She ate with enthusiasm, scratched at the ground, and interacted with the others as if nothing was wrong. The rest of the flock showed no signs of distress, which made the situation even more puzzling.

Could it be something as simple as food stuck in her crop? Shes always been one to dive headfirst into her meals. Or is this the early onset of wry neck? Watching her closely now, hoping for answersanyone else ever seen something like this?
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CoopAlchemist
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by CoopAlchemist »

Try offering some apple cider vinegar in her water,it's great for digestion and general health. If the issue is crop-related, this might help balance things out.
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EggSeeker
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by EggSeeker »

Check her crop first thing in the morning before she eats. If it feels hard or full, she might have an impacted crop. If it's empty, then the twitching could be something else,maybe a neurological issue or a simple habit.
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HenHobbyist
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by HenHobbyist »

Sudden twitching could be anything from crop issues to mild neurological quirks. Try some scrambled eggs with vitamin E for a boost and see if it helps. If it persists, you may want to isolate and monitor her for a few days.
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EggspertFarmer
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by EggspertFarmer »

If she free ranges, she might have picked up something irritating,like a tiny bug or dust in her throat. Offer some wet mash to see if it helps her clear it out. Sometimes, it's just a temporary reaction.
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FeatheredTrailblazer
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by FeatheredTrailblazer »

Is she on a good balanced feed? Nutrient deficiencies, especially vitamin B or E, can sometimes cause odd neurological behaviors. A good poultry vitamin supplement wouldn't hurt while you figure things out.
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CluckAndGrow
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by CluckAndGrow »

Any chance she's been exposed to moldy feed or toxic plants? Neurological symptoms can sometimes be caused by something she ate. Check her environment and make sure she hasn't gotten into anything unusual.
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AnnieAviary
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by AnnieAviary »

Does she seem to be in distress when she twitches, or does it just happen occasionally? If she's still engaging in normal activities, it might just be a random behavior. If it worsens, then it's time to dig deeper.
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HenHouseHistorian
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by HenHouseHistorian »

Try offering some olive oil and gently massaging her crop. If it's a minor blockage, this can help things move along. Also, check if she has access to grit,it's essential for digestion!
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DustBathQueen
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Re: A Curious Case of Neck Twitching Cause for Concern?

Post by DustBathQueen »

VeggieVibes wrote: Wed Feb 12, 2025 7:45 am This morning, while watching the flock go about their usual routine, something caught my eye. One of the young Buff Orpingtons stood still, stretched her neck out, and gave a sudden twitch. At first, it seemed like a one-off movement, but then she did it again. And again.

Aside from this odd behavior, everything else seemed perfectly normal. She ate with enthusiasm, scratched at the ground, and interacted with the others as if nothing was wrong. The rest of the flock showed no signs of distress, which made the situation even more puzzling.

Could it be something as simple as food stuck in her crop? Shes always been one to dive headfirst into her meals. Or is this the early onset of wry neck? Watching her closely now, hoping for answersanyone else ever seen something like this?


Watch for any signs of labored breathing or sneezing. Sometimes, extended neck movements can indicate a respiratory issue rather than a crop problem. If you hear wheezing, she might need further attention.
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