Page 650 - Hand rearing birds second

Corvids 651

restricts movement. Damage to a joint in the foot may result in leakage of joint fluid that causes
swelling of the area around the joint. Pox lesions may also form on the foot and should not be mis-
diagnosed as bumblefoot.

Head Injury
Many juvenile corvids fall from the nest or have unsuccessful initial flights, which may result in a
head injury. A weak cry, labored breathing, eye problems, balance problems, or an abnormally
quiet bird may be indications of a head injury. Keep the bird warm and quiet and seek veterinary
assistance. Provide a rolled towel nest if support is needed to keep the bird upright and use caution
in giving hydration and food because the ability to swallow might be compromised. Familiarize
yourself with the avian tongue structure. A wound to the top of the head might reveal the move-
ment of the “appendages” to the tongue.

Metabolic­Bone­Disease

Juvenile corvids often exhibit signs of metabolic bone disease, which include lameness and reluc-
tance to move due to painful degenerative changes in the bones. This problem is often seen if the
bird was the runt of the clutch, kept as a pet, or raised by inexperienced parents or a member of the
public. The BSFR diet will help in supplying necessary calcium to the bird, but extra supplementa-
tion of calcium may be necessary. Supply a balanced diet. Offer corvids portions of hard-boiled egg
with the shell. Seek veterinary assistance concerning calcium supplements for birds showing signs
of metabolic bone disease.

Infectious Diseases

Avian Pox
Avian pox is common in young corvids. To mitigate the potential spread of the virus, house corvids
in stable groups that will go through the raise and release process together. Spray newly admitted
birds for ectoparasites and periodically check for possible infestation. Ensure feeding utensils are
not shared between groups. Examine the legs, feet, face, abdomen, vent, mouth, or other exposed
areas for raised areas or sores. Pox is contagious to similar species by direct contact or an insect
vector. Isolate all exposed birds for a minimum of 2 weeks. Birds exhibiting signs of the disease
should be kept in a screened, insect-free area until lesions are healed and scabs, which may contain
the virus, are shed. Disinfect all surfaces after use and discard contaminated cardboard crates or
carriers. Pox virus may be transmitted on clothing. Treatment involves supportive care to prevent
secondary infections and promote healing. If lesions become grossly large or do not heal, the vet-
erinarian should rule out bacterial or fungal infection or mite infestation. Wash your hands or
change gloves before handling a new bird or nest of birds. Unwashed hands are frequently respon-
sible for the spread of pox virus!

Beak Deformities
There are many reasons for beak deformities, among them diet and injury. There is also new
research indicating a newly discovered Poecivirus may be responsible for a number of beak abnor-
malities initially recognized in birds, including crows from Alaska (Zylberberg et al. 2016). Juvenile
corvids with metabolic bone disease may exhibit “bendable” beaks. Time and proper diet usually
mitigates the problem.