Discoloration in Nail

I've had Olive for just over a year, and haven't had any health problems up until recently...

It seems the left toe on each foot is starting to turn a pink color, and the nail is doing the same.

Olive acts normal, she plays with all of her toys, takes baths, eats and so on... I've searched the forums, and the internet in general to find an answer as to what might be ailing her, but I cannot seem to find anything.

Any help would be much appreciated!!


Here is a photo of what it looks like. Sorry its on its side.

I kind of wonder if he may just happen to have a bird form of vitiligo, which is an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the cells that bring about pigmentation. It's not dangerous by any means, just causes the cells to no longer exhibit melanin colouring. It occurs randomly and there's no genetic predisposition for it. My boyfriend actually suffers from it and it's very mild. He can treat his with a steroid cream, but I don't think you can really treat it in birds.

Other than that, your bird may also contain a mild pied gene which is essentially the same thing - lack of pigmentation. Avery happens to have one white spot on exactly one flight feather. I've done tests on her and she's perfectly healthy. Oliver may just happen to have his spot on his foot If you are concerned about it (like I was), then there's no harm in going to the vet and perhaps getting a blood panel done just in case. It is costly, but it would put your mind at ease.

Thank you for your input, Dinosrawr!!

I'm very familiar with Vitiligo, and now I wonder if she does have some form of it... She also has a white area on one of her flight feathers.

I'll just keep an eye and make sure it doesn't turn into something worse... If I see any signs, off to the vet she'll go!

Rocky80 said:

As she's not that old it could just be a maturity thing, I have heard of them changing colour on their feet and chests as they start to approach puberty.
If they're not sore or inflamed I wouldnt worry too much, I'm sure she'll'let you know if she's in any discomfort.

Good luck

Click to expand...

Ah, that could be it. Thank you!!