Budgie Rescue

Hello All,
I've been working at a parrot sanctuary in southern California for 3 years now and I've been around all types of birds from parrotlets to black palm cockatoos, and I have a good idea of how to take care of birds, however I have never dealt with injured birds to this extent. When an injured budgie flew in one day, we were already at capacity and we're unable to house this little guy so I decided I would take him home. He's an English Budgie and is not able to use his left foot and one of his hind toes on his right foot is put forward instead of back, I'm guessing he's had these injuries for a while as he does not seem to be in pain and can get around pretty well. I have him on a healthy diet of grains, legumes, peas, carrots, corn, leafy greens and sprouts with millet spray and a cuttlebone. The bottom of his cage is covered with a towel and then paper towels on top so he can't get his claws stuck in the grate. I've had him for 1 day now and plan to take him to an avian vet this week however in the meantime any advice on how to get him on track to a happy and healthy new life?

P. S His name is Joe.

Jeez that rescue must be full to the brim if they couldn't find space for 1 more budgie! Good on you for taking him on

Sorry I don't have any experience with a "special needs" bird, but I've always said budgies are among the toughest little critters around and your Joe sounds like he is managing just fine. It may be genetic or he may have been sat on a little too long in the nest box resulting in his toe facing the wrong way. In any event he sounds like he has landed in the right place with you.

We do have a few members who have birds with feet in similar condition and hopefully they will notice your thread and reply. In the meantime, welcome aboard!

We have a splay legged budgie who cannot walk or climb normally at all. They are really adaptable little critters and our Hima is a gem of a bird. She can get around on her own but also likes to cling to our shirts or my glasses.



Can you put a picture of little Joe?



They really are amazingly tough little guys as LaManuka said.

Oh, bless you, bless you!

I look forward to following this story.

Tips for a happy life? Avian vet + Parrot Forums + LOVE!

Just in case you could use a vet search...

Certified Avian Vets
https://abvp.com/animal-owners/find-an-abvp-specialist/
If none are near you...
Avian Veterinarians
http://www.aav.org/search/custom.asp?id=1803