Diagnosis?

[BrianNAmy]

I honestly wouldn't knwo what to look for when looking for a broken wing. If I can't see blood gushing and bones protruding, I proabbly can't tell but... I figured maybe someone here could help?

We found Polly outside our doorstep 2 days ago. She actually fluttered up the 18 steps and stood outside our door for our apartment waiting for me to get to the top. She was able to move both wiings but couldn't fly and at that time I noticed one wing was being held a bit out from her body.

2 days later with, some rest, water and plenty of food I've examined her a bit more and taken pictures that I'm posting up here. Now when she's relaxed her wing droops about an inch or 2 down but when she gets stressed or becomes alert she lifts her wing up but still keeps it about 1/2 inch out from her body.

Here are the picture: http://www.pbase.com/briannamy/inbox

By what can be seen here would anyone be able to determine if the wing is broken, dislocated, etc. I mean, no bones feel broken and she is able to extend and flap it, but again, I wouldn't know what I was looking at unless she comes with little post-its

As a side note. I think I may know how she injured herself... which leads to another concern. Both Amy and I have noticed her come in for landings in the past and either change her mind at the last second, flap violently and land on the roof above our balcony, or make a U-turn in mid air. I have a feeling she may have missed the roof this one time and flapped against the ledge. So how do you help a bird with bad aim?!?

[AZWhitefeather]

I just took a look at Polly's pictures & there is definately a problem with her wing. I don't believe there is any way, by looking at the picture, to tell exactly what the problem is, only that there is a problem. The pictures certainly do help though. Thank you for posting them.

Suggestion: With the wing extended, beginning with the 'good' wing, & starting at the top of the wing (closest to the body), gently run your thumb & forefinger down the entire wing. Then extend the 'bad' wing & repeat the process, paying careful attention to anything that feels different from the good wing.

As I stated in your other thread, I live in Mesa & will be happy to take a look at Polly & if necessary will gladly take her over to my rehabber (who lives in Chandler) for a check.

The longer the wing goes untreated the less likely it will heal properly.

Please keep us posted.
Cindy

[Fred]

I think it's very important to get an X-Ray of the wing because right now, there is no way of knowing if this injury is a fracture or a strain. Either way, the bird is in pain and some support should be given to alleviate the stress on it. How to support the wing depends on what is seen on the film. Without support and regardless of the reason, she may not ever be able to fly well again.
Although birds do have accidents, she may have been weak for some other reason and that may account for her inability to land properly.

[This message has been edited by Fred (edited March 15, 2004).]

[TAWhatley]

Ditto to the advice given by Cindy and Fred. There is definitely something wrong with the wing, and it needs attention. What a smart bird to seek out your help!

Terry

[dano7]

Sometimes wings droop because of trauma to adjacent body tissue. You might look for this. Regardless, professional treatment is needed ASAP.

[AZWhitefeather]

UPDATE on Polly.
Brian emailed me directly & given the replies to his questions, I suggested he contact Nancy directly instead of having him bring her over here.

After reviewing the pictures I know she will need to be in the hands of a more experienced person & the less bouncing around, going from one place to another, she has to endure the better off she will be.

I asked if he would let us know what the outcome is.
Cindy

[TAWhatley]

Thanks for helping on this Cindy. I know that the bird will get the help needed from Nancy's expert hands .. I'm still somewhat uncomfortable in setting broken bones and am thankful to have Dr. Lee to help when necessary.

I hope it turns out to be good news for the bird.

Terry