Meeting Place For People Interested In Corvids
The most common causes in the wild for birds loosing a leg is entanglement with thread, fishing line, balloon ribbons or other litter. This can happen at all ages, even as a nestling. Other causes include predator attacks, birth deformities or injuries caused by traps and snares.
Nell came to us in May 2013 after being rescued as a fledgling near a rookery. She has been found on the ground after being abandoned by her parents, most likely because she was not able to get herself off the ground to follow her siblings and parents round. Unlike carrion crows, it is known that rooks will not feed their offspring on the ground. Luckily Nell has been rescued right in time and brought to us for treatment and rehabilitation.
Laniakea came to us as an adult rook in Spring 2017. We did not know for sure how old she was when she arrived. However, it was very obvious to us that Laniakea was already an experienced and mature rook. When we rescued her, it became immediatly apparent that she would never be releasable. This thought was deeply troubling, in particular as it was very likely that Laniakea had a partner, who was waiting for her. Her arrival came with a big shock too, as she had suffered horrendous injuries to her leg, most likely caused by a spring trap. Laniakea had to undergo surgery, but recovered very well from her leg amputation.
It is nesting season and corvid fledglings are about to leave their nests to start the big adventure of life. Corvid fledglings are fully feathered and healthy looking birds, who can perch, stand and hop by themselves. They are already able to fly short distances. Fledglings of many bird species leave the nest at this stage, and for good reasons. If they would remain in the nest, predators could have an easy meal, killing the whole brood at once. Leaving the nest and hiding scattered in trees, in the undergrowth or in bushes, even when not fully developed and not being able to fly properly, is the best way to increase survival chances. It gives fledglings the time and required exercise to improve their flying skills, which often takes less than a week of daily practice, after they have left the nest.
Continue reading “First Aid For Birds – How To Help A Grounded Corvid Fledgling”