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126 Hand-Rearing Birds

Cannibalism
Domestic Galliformes are naturally cannibalistic; game birds especially should be observed for
cannibalistic behavior. Cannibalism usually does not begin in earnest under 2–3 weeks of age. If
observed in young chicks, it is generally the result of insufficient feed or diarrhea (soiled vents can
be attractive pecking targets). In older birds with noninfectious causes, methods of controlling
pecking include reducing light intensity, reducing bird density, increasing the number of feeders,
providing environmental enrichment, and conditioning of the beaks. Remove moderately to
severely cannibalized birds and segregate them until their skin has healed completely. Avian skin
regenerates quickly and with little to no scarring, particularly in younger birds. If an individual
bird has been pecked severely but no isolation facilities are available, spraying the affected area
with pruning tar (used for trees) is a good solution. The tar protects the skinless area from fluid
loss, is nontoxic even when used on open wounds, and has the advantage of identifying the perpe-
trators by staining their beaks black. If small numbers of birds are the aggressors, these birds can
be given red spectacles (“peepers”) that attach to their nares or be fitted with red contact lenses,
which are available at most poultry supply stores. If many of the birds are acting cannibalistic,
making environmental adjustments such as reducing light intensity, checking feed, or simply put-
ting a tinted (e.g. red) light bulb may help with the behavior.

Bumblefoot
Bumblefoot or pododermatitis occurs when the footpad is abraded or punctured, allowing
Staphylococcus bacteria to infect the wound. Bumblefoot is readily identified on physical exam as
a well‐defined, thickened “callus” (granuloma) on the footpad sometimes seen with or without a
penetrating ulcer. A granuloma is a collection of hardened inflammatory cells. Granulomas may be
very large and when removed result in pain and expose underlying tissue to further infection.
Consult an avian veterinarian, who will definitively diagnose the condition and may prescribe a
course of antibiotics. Although more commonly encountered in older, heavier birds, bumblefoot
can be seen in chicks. Keeping litter clean and dry, and not allowing it to get caked up, can reduce
the incidence of this condition. Use soft yet supportive litter such as rice hulls or wood shavings.
Avoiding exposure to sharp objects can reduce the chance of injury to footpads and prevent
Staphylococcus infection.

Crop Impaction
Chicks are naturally curious and will peck at anything that interests them. When chicks ingest
nonfood particles such as sand or sawdust, their crops may become filled with this nondigestible
material. Birds may stop eating and the crop may appear pendulous and feel very full. In older
birds, crop impaction may indicate Marek’s disease (MD) (see “Viral Diseases”), which can cause
paralysis of the vagus nerve and loss of gut motility.

Infectious Diseases
When infectious diseases are suspected, an avian veterinarian should be consulted. He or she will
observe the birds, perform diagnostic tests, and make specific treatment and prevention recom-
mendations. Since January 1, 2017, a new U.S. Food and Drug Administration rule named the
Veterinary Feed Directive has put tighter regulation of the use of antibiotics, meaning that drugs