Pullet attacked by a hawk, resulting wing injury....

[Shadrach]

I think she's a lovely looking hen. I get gray crosses here but because of the Maran genes they tend to have copper in their hackles.
I've had two here, a long time ago and my medical care and knowledge has improved since then, that had broken wings. One I managed to save but the other died from internal injuries I've assumed.
I did try splints on both. I know it can be done but it was way beyond my skill level.
In the end I treated the wound with Stockholm hoof tar after cleaning, and taped the injured wing to the body. The wing had to stay motionless for at least three weeks I was told. The hen that survived never fully recovered the use of that wing. The problem with keeping a wing still for the length of time it takes the bone to fuse is the muscles waste and probably any tendon damage doesn't get addressed properly.

 

[RodNTN]

She's alert and eating and that is always a great sign!

 

[micstrachan]

Yay, Mouse! You are doing a wonderful job with her. The only thing I might add (unless I missed it?) is I would be prepared to administer antibiotics. I personally would not administer them prophylactically, but be ready at the first sign of infection. Good luck and please keep us posted on her progress.

 

[Alexandra33]

I think she's a lovely looking hen. I get gray crosses here but because of the Maran genes they tend to have copper in their hackles.
I've had two here, a long time ago and my medical care and knowledge has improved since then, that had broken wings. One I managed to save but the other died from internal injuries I've assumed.
I did try splints on both. I know it can be done but it was way beyond my skill level.
In the end I treated the wound with Stockholm hoof tar after cleaning, and taped the injured wing to the body. The wing had to stay motionless for at least three weeks I was told. The hen that survived never fully recovered the use of that wing. The problem with keeping a wing still for the length of time it takes the bone to fuse is the muscles waste and probably any tendon damage doesn't get addressed properly.

How sweet, thank you! No telling what colors you'll get out of those bantam Easter Eggers. Marans crosses, you say? Mixed with what?

Sounds as though you have some experience when it comes to injured wings. What you stated about the muscle and tendon situation makes sense. When one of my Mallard drakes ended up with a broken wing after a car hit him, wrapping kept it from dragging the ground. Unfortunately, he never flew again.

She's alert and eating and that is always a great sign!

You hit the nail on the head!

Yay, Mouse! You are doing a wonderful job with her. The only thing I might add (unless I missed it?) is I would be prepared to administer antibiotics. I personally would not administer them prophylactically, but be ready at the first sign of infection. Good luck and please keep us posted on her progress.

Thank you so much for your kind words! Oral antibiotics? I believe the type I have is best geared towards respiratory infections....

Most certainly!

~Alex

 

[Alexandra33]

Mouse is now back in the coop recovering. She's looking better with each passing day! In fact, it's getting difficult to keep her confined in the dog kennel....little girl is quite antsy to return to free-ranging!

It's beginning to appear that the wing is indeed usable, thank goodness. I've watched her fly in order to roost.

Thank you all a million for your continuous support. I don't know where either of us would be without our wonderful BYC friends.

~Alex

 

[twilightgecko]

ah, so glad Mouse seems to be on the road to recovery.. strong willed gal..

 

[sassysarah]

Glad she is doing better! Great job caring for her, @Alexandra33 !
Please keep us updated on her recovery!

 

[No More Empty Nest]

Just saw this thread for the first time. So glad little Mouse is doing better! She's beautiful!

 

[micstrachan]

Fantastic news about Mouse!

 

[Emojikitten]

I've had a hawk attack my chicken before. But it died... I don't know any tips to help it heal.

If the bird likes being handled, give it lots of attention. If not, leave it be. This will calm it down and make it feel like it's safe. Give it a good amount of food and water, and maybe some treats if you can afford them. After it's healed and she's out of shock, you should be safe to return her to the flock.

I hope this helps, even a little bit!