Page 588 - Hand rearing birds second

Wild Parrots 589

Some at‐risk wild chicks, especially those of endangered or threatened species, may be removed
from their nests by permitted organizations or authorities and brought in for hand‐rearing. Reasons
for intervention in wild nests include avoidance of poaching, prevention of siblicide associated
with overcrowding, pest or parasite infestation, predation, parental abandonment, or threat from
natural disasters such as flooding or fires. Optimum at‐risk chick removal for a planned interven-
tion is at about 3 weeks of age.
Re‐nesting is a consideration but a risky one. Foster parents may fail to feed the introduced chick
or abandon the nest completely. They and the original nestmates may also attack the newcomer.
However, nest manipulation has been successful with Scarlet Macaws. More studies are needed on
the subject. If re‐nesting is attempted, an introduced chick must closely match the ages of potential
nestmates and be closely monitored.
Birds that have been habituated during captivity in the pet trade can be rehabilitated and re‐
socialized for successful wild release, but the process is time consuming and may require a pro-
longed period of care. If time and resources are limiting, do not try to rehabilitate ex‐captive or
hand‐reared wild parrots. This is a seriously long‐term investment for a long‐lived and intelligent
species. You cannot cut corners or accelerate the process.

­ Record­Keeping

Daily weight records are important along with periodic biometrics during chick development
(Figure 39.1). It is the best way to detect the beginning of many problems early. Records should
include the diet being fed, quantity, frequency of feeding, weight gain, and notes on droppings and
crop emptying if needed. Compare weights to other chicks of the same age, or to species‐specific
weight charts, if available.

Figure 39.1 Chick being weighed.