Once the formula is prepared and measured into the syringe and the
wet tubing is attached, you may begin feeding your pigeon. Be sure that
the tube is not dripping, though; you must not allow fluid to enter
the trachea. If you have two people available, one can steady the pigeon
while the other feeds. With two people, the process is much easier.
However, these instructions are designed assuming you are feeding the
pigeon by yourself.
1. Open the pigeon's beak gently and lift the head. Be careful not to put any pressure on the pigeon's crop (throat area).
2. Gently insert the wet tubing all the way into the pigeon's crop. Be sure to keep the tubing along the back of the throat in order to go through the esophagus. The tube will enter either through either the back left or back right side of the tongue. If you feel resistance, remove the tube and try again. Keep the head and neck as straight as possible. You can feel the tip of the tubing against the front of the crop when it is correctly positioned.
Note: With the mouth opened, it is easy to see the opening into the trachea or windpipe. It is on the lower portion of the mouth just behind the tongue. It will contract and open with every breath. The tube must be gently placed past this opening at the back of the mouth to one side of the tongue. If done correctly, the tube will pass very easily down the throat into the crop. Do not force it if you feel resistance.
3. When the tube is all the way in, gently push the syringe plunger. If the food comes back up into the mouth, remove the tubing immediately and let the pigeon clear its throat. The tube was probably not far enough into the crop. After everyone calms down, try again.
4. After the crop is almost full (be very careful not to overfill), gently remove the tubing and let the pigeon calm down.
