Page 589 - Hand rearing birds second

590 Hand-Rearing Birds

Use colored plastic bands on young chicks and change those out for numbered stainless steel
open bands as they fledge. BBR uses a stainless steel open leg band which remains post‐release.
Microchips inserted into the pectoral muscle can also be safely used, but for visual identification of
a rehabilitated bird in the wild, the leg bands are more practical. (Editor’s note: Local governmen-
tal agencies may have regulations regarding banding or marking animals released to the wild.)

­ Initial­Care­and Stabilization

Initially, perform a brief examination to identify any life‐threatening issues and address them
accordingly. See Chapter 1 for physical examination and basic medical care information. Hydration
is paramount, especially in young chicks. The majority of new arrivals are dehydrated, particularly
in Mesoamerica because the height of the breeding season falls in the dry season. Most of the cavi-
ties chosen by parrots have been shown to maintain the optimum temperature range, but it is not
always the case and some artificial nest boxes can be warmer than natural cavities.
If the chick is warm, active, and swallowing or head bobbing, it can be hydrated orally. Hydrate
®
each chick using a pediatric electrolyte solution such as Pedialyte orally. In very dehydrated
babies, subcutaneous (SQ) fluids may be needed. If the bird is lethargic or not swallowing normally,
SQ fluids will be safer: 50 ml/kg of lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS) is used in mildly dehydrated
babies. Repeat if still dehydrated after complete absorption. If nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) are to be used to treat injuries, they should only be started after optimal hydration
is reached to limit the risk of kidney damage.
New intakes have usually been though considerable stress during capture, handling, and trans-
port. Following any urgent rehydration and a simple weight check, a recuperation period should
be observed. A dog crate with toweling substrate and a solid perch is preferred: cover the door with
another towel to minimize stimulation and keep them in a warm, calm environment. A tempera-
ture of 85–90 °F (29–32 °C) is optimal.
If a chick already has food in the crop, it is important to wait for this to empty and the bird to pass
regular droppings before attempting feeding. Continue oral or SQ rehydration if necessary.
Sometimes, a crop flush might be needed, especially if the baby was fed inappropriate food (bread,
corn flour) or if the digestive system is severely affected, producing “sour crop” or slow crop clear-
ance (see “Crop Motility” section).
Once the baby is well hydrated, is passing droppings, and the crop is fairly empty, it is safe to start
feeding. Assessing age, development, and behavior will help determine whether or not a bird is
already weaned. Any parrot chick with incomplete feather development will always require hand‐
feeding. Fully feathered birds that still requiring feeding will react to stimulation of the pads next
to the commissures of the beak. Head bobbing and a gentle (or urgent) begging sound will indicate
an unweaned chick. If in doubt, offer recognizable natural solid foods, provide a secure and quiet
environment, and observe. Never force a chick to take hand‐feeding formula unless every other
approach has been exhausted; however, don’t wait too long before starting to hand‐feed a chick
that is not self‐feeding, as they weaken quickly if not self‐feeding adequately.
Once the chick is settled and over the initial stress, assess for any other issues that may require inter-
vention: parasites; fungi (including yeast); bacteria; splayed legs; ear, nose, throat, or eye infections;
poor stool quality; or dirty feathers, feet, or vent. See “Common Medical Problems” section ahead.
Do not under any circumstances mix species: inappropriate pair‐bonding happens very easily at
young ages, and it will unquestionably preclude release of both birds. It is incredibly rare for there
to be any aggression within chick groups.