Instructions
Visually inspect the chickens in the flock, paying particular attention to the chest area where the crop is located. Watch for any chickens whose chests may be distended with a swollen lump or exhibit lethargy or a sudden drop in weight. Chickens with crop ailments may also show discomfort by swaying their heads back and forth.
Pick up the chicken and keep it firmly tucked under one arm with its wings and feet secured. Physically inspect the chickens in the morning, since their crops should be emptied after not feeding during the night. Attempting to handle the chicken may also be easiest in the morning when it is still on the roost.
Locate the crop by gently rubbing the chicken along the chest with your bare hands. The crop is located just below the neck and in the center of the chest.
Feel for any abnormalities. The crop should feel empty and loose without any hardness or sensation of liquid inside. Chickens with a "squishy" crop, may have the beginnings of sour crop, a condition confirmed by a foul smell emanating from the beak.
Take a chicken with a suspected crop issue to the veterinarian immediately, where they can offer treatment or surgery if necessary.
How to Check a Chicken's Crop
Inspecting the crop of a chicken prevents against either impacted or sour crop, conditions that if left unchecked can be serious, and in the case of an impacted crop, may result in the death of the chicken. The crop is the first stage in the chicken's digestion system, softening and breaking down food before it reaches the gizzard. Check the flock at least once a week, particular if they range freely, for any crop issues that may arise.