Fungus causing weird beak growth?

[13Birds]

Mainly I have larger birds, but do keep finches too. (Zebra & Society). I noticed that the beaks on some are overgrown and cris-cross. Occasionally I trim them but the problem hasn't hurt their ability to eat.

I heard the beak overgrowth is due to some fungus or infection or may be diet related. Read some books but none give a clear answer. I feed seed and safe fruits, supplementing with hard boiled egg (removing what they don't finish quickly) Should I be adding vites to the water?

My oldest Zebra is 12 years old, but the younger ones are having the weird beak growth. Fungus or Diet? hmmm. Your experience?

[2horse]

Is there any chance they have mites?

[13Birds]

I don't see any on the white paper I put in bottom of cage, but I'll have to check again at night. Haven't noticed any excessive itching or preening and feathers look good. Two of the 7 finches have the cris-cross beak thing. The condition is on two birds right now, 1 who lives with one other finch, and on another who lives with 4 others. I would imagine mites would be an issue for all if that were the case since cages are very close together. That's why I guessed it was health or diet. First time I've had this problem. Only other thing I can note is that I never used to have a meal moth problem until a few years ago. Now we vacuum and clean like crazy and keep seed in fridge. Do moth eggs in fallen seed cause health issues? hmmm.

[Monica]

Veggies and sprouts are also important....

Have you considered getting them checked out by an avian vet?

[birdlady49]

I think (don't quote me on this) but when an older bird's liver starts having problems, it'll affect the beak. But a trip to your avian vet is definitely in order.

[fluffy_stitch]

ive seen somewhere that criss/crossing beaks can be caused by a genetic problem too,i cant remember where i read it though.

[Jan in MD]

In finches, often cross beak will be liver disease in an older bird- especially hens. Try to increase calcium and fresh dark greens.