I've heard about crop feeding but the website im learning it from suggest that i don't crop feed if i'm not experienced, instead i should just mix the formula, and put it directly into the pigeons mouth.But how do i do this? i know that sounds stupid, but this baby is 2 weeks old and i want to make sure that i do this correctly.thanks
Crop feeding should be a last effort. I have found the best method for feeding baby birds is to mix the formula to be liquid enough to use a syringe, and feed directly into the mouth of the baby bird. This is a preferred method. The food on the birds tongue triggers the bird to swallow the food. The formula that I would use for a pigeon is the same formula that I would use for a baby parrot. You can purchase the formula at any Pet Smart of pet store. If you use this formula be sure to place it in the microwave for around 10 seconds. Otherwise, it will expand in the crop of the bird. Good luck.
What I do is use a Dixie cup and punch a hole into it so birds beak will fit in it and place beak in hole and let them eat up the food. Pigeons put their beaks in mothers mouth and throat to eat so this is more natural for them and less chance of aspiration. Or you can try the syringe and place it down into the throat over to the side. Can you contact a wildlife rehabber to take these babies? Call the DEC or local vet who will be able to refer you. It is free. good luck.
If you don't have a syringe you can use a baby spoon. Just feed him like you would a human baby slow and wipe his little beak and feathers.
