AboutRev. Dr. S.August Abbott Expertise Certified Avian Specialist; Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council member; Own animal rescue org; National Wildlife habitat #66378; bird care, nutrition & behavior consultant; International Assoc. of Animal Behavior Consultants Associate; National Wildlife Federation Leaders Club member; published bird care, info and behavior articles and guides.
Ongoing education in exotic bird behavior and nutrition
I can answer behavioral, nutritional, environmental, characteristic/personality questions as well as general health and health care.
No animal emergency can ever be addressed on the internet. We cannot see your animal, perform an examination, provide necessary care or medication.
Please value your companion for the priceless, living creature they are; not for what you might have paid for them.
Experience Certified Avian Specialist.
For more than 30 years I've worked with veterinarians, protective facilities, nature centers, preserves and on my own in providing care and education with regard to multiple animal species, including raptors (hawks, kestrals, owls, etc) and marsupials. In recent years I've focused on parrots, usually rescued from abusive or less than ideal situations and helping educate owners as to proper care. Expert in behavior studies and modification of problem behavior.
Organizations 4AnimalCare is the organization I run as an animal ministry; World Wildlife Association, Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, National Wildlife Federation Leaders Club and more
Publications Bird Talk Magazine articles about rescued and problem macaws.
Education/Credentials Doctorate, Ordained Minister
Question QUESTION: dear sir,
I have an8 yr old Grey purchased a week ago. The seller said the bird cant fly. However, it flies here, badly. The birds are out all day, and in sleep cages at night.
It seems this birds secondary flight feathers are "loose". Somtimes they stick out from the wing. What could have caused this, and what can I do to help. Thank you Pat IMAGE: Charlie
ANSWER: What has he been fed for the most part?
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: The seller said he had eaten a varied diet, and he readily eats carrots, corn, nuts, poridge for breakfast, a little meat, fruit etc. They have no room for many seeds, but I offer them anyway.
I give baby (human) food by spoon to my young grey, cotains calcium and vits. Charlie finishes the dish. Regard Pat
Answer You're doing a very good job and feeding quite well so keep it up.
Being consistent might change this over time. I think his history might have contributed to it.
There are more tips for feeding here www.4AnimalCare.org
You're also doing an excellent job with the separate sleep cage. You really have a good handle on this.
A physical disease leading to what is called 'valgus disorder', also known as "angel wings" , but let's hope for a change once his system has more of your good care, ok?
There's more feeding ideas here www.4AnimalCare.org