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396 Hand-Rearing Birds

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electrolyte solution (such as Pedialyte ) or lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS) very carefully on the tip
of the bill and allow it to roll down the bill for the chick to swallow. If needed, gently open the
mouth slightly and insert a drop in the side of the bill. Be careful so that the chick does not aspirate.
Repeat this a few times. Follow the drops of electrolyte solution with drops of 50% dextrose if the
chick is still poorly responsive. If the chick is extremely young or has been chilled or is lethargic,
see Box 24.1 on intensive care of hatchlings.
Most shorebirds are very easily stressed. A warm, quiet, environment and as minimal handling
as possible are important to their success. Make sure new arrivals are warm and well hydrated
before proceeding with a thorough physical exam. During their time in captivity, birds should be
briefly examined each time they are weighed for feather condition, vent cleanliness, foot condi-
tion, injuries, or signs of illness. See Chapter 1 for information on performing a physical exam on
chicks.
Always hold a bird by reaching around from the back. Birds must expand their chests to breathe
and if they are held from the front their breathing may be restricted. Chicks are very fragile so be
gentle, taking care that a chick does not suddenly jump out of your hand and fall to the floor.
Because shorebird chicks must be able to run shortly after hatching, their legs are well developed
from the start.

­ Common­Medical­Problems­and Solutions

Metabolic­Bone­Disease
Due to rapid growth and often extremely long limbs, shorebirds may be susceptible to metabolic
bone disease (MBD). High calcium, low‐fat diets are very important in rearing long legged birds.
See Chapter 17 for a discussion of this problem.

Angel­Wing
Wing abnormalities in the carpometacarpal area commonly called slipped wing or angel wing may
occur for several reasons: deficiencies in one of several nutrients such as vitamin E, vitamin D 3 ,
or manganese, excessive dietary protein, or overfeeding (Flinchum 2006). If this occurs, the chick
should be moved into a larger enclosure to increase its activity level. Adjusting the diet so that a
greater percentage is chitinous food, such as crickets and mealworms (waxworms and fly larvae
are higher in fat), also may help. Food should be supplemented with powdered calcium carbonate
and avian vitamins (Nekton‐S). The wing should be wrapped into normal position and checked
daily for improvement in its alignment. If attempts to correct this problem are made promptly,
correction may occur within 3–5 days. Be careful to not damage growing flight feathers with
wraps.

Leg­and Toe­Abnormalities
Stilts and avocets seem to be particularly susceptible to foot problems, such as drying, cracking,
and pressure sores. Keeping the substrate clean and soft and offering clean wading dishes and
pools are important factors in preventing foot problems. Splayed legs and curled toes can also be
an issue. The proper substrate is very important to prevent this. They need to have good traction
and not slide around.