What size crop needle should I use to feed my bird?
The table below gives a good guide to what size crop needle is suitable for different bird species.
Bird Species | Bodyweight | Crop Volume | Needle Size |
Finch | 12 – 20g | 0.5mL | 18 gauge |
Canary | 20 – 25g | 0.5mL | 18 gauge |
Budgie | 35 – 50g | 1-2mL | 16 gauge |
Neophema | 40 – 50g | 1.5 – 2.5mL | 16 gauge |
Cockatiel | 80 – 90g | 4 – 5mL | 14 gauge |
Eastern Rosella | 80 – 110g | 5 – 10mL | 12 gauge |
Princess Parrot | 100 – 120g | 5 – 10mL | 12 gauge |
Galah | 300 – 350g | 10 – 20mL | 10 gauge |
Pigeon | 300 – 500g | 30 – 60mL | 8 gauge |
White Cockatoo | 600 – 900g | 30 – 50mL | 8 gauge |
For advise on how to feed your bird using a crop needle please visit our Help Centre Article “How To Use A Crop Needle“.
Hi Bec and VetnPet direct.
Thanks for your time. I see from your c hart that it is advised that an adult cockatoo could be administered food/medication with an 8 gauge crop needle. I am completing an assessment at the moment for my Cert III Captive Animals studies and am doing a hand raising manual for a Red-tailed black cockatoo. But because I am feeding a chick u to weaning age I presume t hat it isn’t appropriate to use such a big crop needle. I appreciate that I should be using the biggest gauge that is safe for a birds oesphagus, but would you have any further advice on this please.
Thanks again – stay safe.
Regards,
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
I would give Vetafarm a call, they are the manufacturers of the crop needles and a wealth of information when it comes to caring for birds. Good luck with your course.
🙂
Bec