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Shearwaters and Petrels 241

Figure 14.3 Fall-out fledgling crate with mesh-bottom frame insert.

Common Medical Problems and Solutions

Avian Pox

Avian pox is a concern in these species. Birds may come in with it or develop it while in care. Birds
can survive the virus but sometimes end up with scarring from the healed lesions that can inhibit
their chances of survival post‐release; deformed bills, blindness, and misshapen nostrils can all
result from pox healing poorly. The virus must run its course and supportive care is the only option.
If there are large lesions that become infected, then a course of antibiotics may be recommended.
Consult with your veterinarian. It is advisable to keep any afflicted chicks away from the rest and
practice good quarantine and sanitation while caring for them. Mosquitos can also spread the
virus, so mosquito control around the area in which the chicks are being raised is recommended.
Mosquito netting over a sand‐bottom or burrow enclosure can serve to protect chicks from mos-
quito‐borne diseases such as avian malaria and avian pox.

Endoparasites

Coccidia is not often seen in chicks raised from young nestlings, but we do see it in fledglings that
have become grounded post‐fledge. It is opportunistic and will affect chicks that are stressed.
Treatment with ponazuril (or toltrazuril) at 20 mg/kg orally once daily for 3 days (Hawkins et al.
2018) following intake is standard for birds that will be in care for more than 2 to 3 days. Regular
fecal sampling is suggested.
Roundworms are found as well on occasion and are treated with either panacur or ivermectin.
Panacur is avoided if the bird is still growing feathers.

Ectoparasites
Chicks may arrive with lice and/or mites. Treatment will depend on what type of parasite the bird
has. Treatment of the burrow and substrate with a spray (pyrethrin) may be necessary to control
mites. Following the instructions on the label, wipe the bird down with a spray‐impregnated cloth