Page 396 - Hand rearing birds second

388 Hand-Rearing Birds

kitty litter, or any material other than natural soil that can be ingested by the patient as intestinal
blockage can result. Wet shavings or grasses harbor fungus and may result in respiratory infec-
tions. Whatever material is used, keep it dry and clean. Cranes walk in their food and bring feces
from the substrate into their food.
Water pans for a very young crane should be of the nontip variety with a substrate in the bottom
such as pea gravel that provides firm nonslip footing. Durable, nontoxic, flowerpot drip saucers
come in a variety of sizes, are easily cleaned, and make good water dishes for very young birds.
Cranes grow quickly, and their needs for drinking receptacles change with growth. Make certain
the youngster can actually drink. Cranes’ long beak necessitates deeper water pans than those
provided for most bird species. It cannot be emphasized too much that if the colt can walk into the
pan, it will. A sturdy substrate such as pea gravel should line the bottom of all pans or bowls for
secure foot placement and to prevent leg injury or splaying.
Once a youngster can eat on its own, provide a raised bowl such as a cat or dog dish that cannot
tip. If the bowl can be tipped, it will be, and it may cause injury to the colts’ legs. Both water and
food should be changed frequently to prevent bacterial growth.
In any housing, take care to check for any unnatural shiny objects, such as staples, bits of wire,
or nails. As discussed previously, cranes are attracted to shiny objects, and ingestion can cause
death (Ellis et al. 1996). It is good practice to use a commercial magnetic sweeper such as the
Buffalo Magnetic Sweeper, to scan the entire ground area in the pen prior to cranes being housed
or allowed to graze. This is particularly true when using new or recently remodeled construction.
Young cranes need adequate room to exercise. Joints and ligaments grow at a rapid rate along
with the rest of the body. A youngster reared without significant exercise will be unable to support
itself and cannot survive. If any swelling is noted in the ankle, or the colt sits down on its hocks
frequently, begin a more aggressive exercise program immediately. Swimming is an excellent
means of exercise for cranes in addition to walking (Ellis et al. 1996). A camouflaged gown, match-
ing the landscape in color and design, can be used when walking or grazing crane chicks to prevent
imprinting or habituation. The author uses gowns of fabric that appear to be tall grass, matching
the habitat of our exercise area.
It may be helpful during the first few days of confinement to house the colt with a young water-
fowl companion, such as a Canada gosling close in age. This may prevent stress and encourage
eating. Some rehabilitators have had success using week-old baby chicks as companions. However,
be aware of the possibility of infectious diseases that can be transferred in these cases. The urge to
siblicide does not generally apply to other species companions large enough to not appear as prey.
A product made for human babies to simulate sounds of the womb is helpful with baby cranes
®
and waterfowl. The Homedics portable “on the go” sound spa is small, inexpensive, and available
at most retail outlets. A windup alarm clock (alarm option turned off) and mirror with a feather
duster may also be helpful to provide the youngster with a substitute parent figure. If using a
feather duster, make certain no chemicals or preservatives have been used. Toxic fumes may result
when feathers that are chemically preserved or treated become wet. Synthetic feathers may be the
safest for this use.

Colts­over­the Age­of 30­Days
A large natural area fenced with 1 × 0.5 in. (2.5 × 1 cm) coated wire provides the most secure pen. A
rectangular pen is the most versatile shape and allows for the most natural exercise for youngsters.
Weasels or rodents can access larger-diameter wire and may kill young cranes. Cranes can also
injure themselves by getting their heads or beaks caught in larger-diameter fencing.