- Thread starter
- #11
She seems to have red swollen spots and little white worms burrowing in her skin along with a sore on the leg that stay forward im so lost I’m not sure what to do and I had her in with my flock overnight in a small animal cage inside their coop and I’m in tears just thinking about her infecting my flock with something while she was with them despite being in the small animals cage it was still in their coopVery, very likely Marek's.. giving it to you straight. Her flock was going to eliminate the weakest link.
Many birds can get Marek's and recover seemingly. This type of limping is NOT caused by hawk attacks. Do you feel any heat or swelling in the leg that indicates an injury? Did the re-homer disclose the bird was unable to walk? How long have you had her? She doesn't really look "bullied" to me, to any point that it would be important.. but do you know what the other home was feeding including treats and supplements? I don't truly believe it's a nutrient deficit.. but anything is possible and that's the first go to for folks who are hopeful it might be something else than disease.
Do you have birds of your own?
Check below her vent and on her abdomen for angry red skin, any dirt clumps stuck to the base of feathers, etc.. looking for parasites.. doing so in the dark with a flash light can give the clearest picture.
Is her vent clear of droppings.. Is she able to stay clean? Some folks will try a sling, depending on how well the bird tolerates it..
View attachment 2384275
View attachment 2384277
Are you willing to care for a special needs bird long term if she doesn't recover? Will you be sending her in for necropsy to confirm or rule out Marek's.. I have links to help. Sorry you face this. Hope she improves!
ETA: After seeing the video that posted, and considering other factors.. it's *possible* it could be neurological damage from the bullying.. I never experienced personally despite having a huge mixed flock with Silkies.. but things do happen sometimes.