Avian Empire

19/11/2024

This month, we're shining a spotlight on some incredible groups doing outstanding mahi to protect our birds through predator control! 🌿🦜 Their efforts are vital in creating safer environments for our native species to thrive.
It’s time for the November Avian Charity of the Month giveaway! 💚
All you have to do to vote is put a like on the photo of the Avian Charity of your choice.
🪶You only get one vote so make it count
🪶Polls close 30th of November
🪶Whoever has the most votes wins the $500 giveaway for November + the donations accumulated from our site for this month.

The candidates:

Predator Free Wellington
Give a trap, save a bird / Forest & Bird
New Zealand Conservation Trust
Whakatipu Wildlife Trust

18/11/2024

Fun fact about preen glands! The oil secreted by the preen gland (uropygial gland) of a duck is a complex mixture of lipids, primarily made up of the following components:

- Wax esters: These are the predominant compounds in the secretion. Wax esters are long-chain fatty acids esterified with long-chain alcohols, providing water-repellent properties.

- Free fatty acids: These acids contribute to the antimicrobial properties of the secretion, helping to protect feathers and skin from bacterial and fungal growth.

- Diacylglycerides: These are glycerol molecules bonded to two fatty acid chains, aiding in the spreadability of the secretion on feathers.

- Phospholipids and sterols: These minor components help maintain the structural integrity and function of the oil.

The oil serves multiple purposes, including waterproofing the duck's feathers, maintaining feather flexibility, and offering antimicrobial protection. In some species, the preen gland oil may also contain compounds that affect the bird's scent, which could play a role in communication or mate selection. 🪶🪶

13/11/2024

For those interested, MPI has released a guide on protecting your birds in the event of an outbreak. For detailed information, visit their website.
https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity-in-nz/bird-flu-be-ready

12/11/2024

We’re looking at developing a backyard poultry course. who's interested and what topics would you like covered? Health, nutrition, coop setup, or something else? Let us know in the comments!

11/11/2024

DID YOU KNOW? In New Zealand, there are typically seven primary species of Eimeria (the protozoan that causes coccidiosis) that affect poultry. Each species infects different parts of the intestinal tract and varies in pathogenicity (severity of disease):

1. Eimeria acervulina – Mild, affects the upper intestine
2. Eimeria maxima – Moderate to severe, affects the middle intestine
3. Eimeria tenella – Highly pathogenic, affects the ceca (can be fatal if untreated)
4. Eimeria necatrix – Severe, affects the middle intestine
5. Eimeria brunetti – Moderate to severe, affects the lower intestine
6. Eimeria mitis – Mild, affects the lower intestine (not common)
7. Eimeria praecox – Mild, affects the upper intestine (not common)

Control of these species typically involves good management practices, vaccination, and anticoccidial medications, especially in commercial poultry.

07/11/2024

Here's a great video that shows how to give liquid and pill meds to your birds. Just remember, this also doubles as the assisted feeding technique. Good one to learn! 💊💊

Sick pet poultry often require medications given at home. This video explains how to safely give medications in both pill and liquid form.Please watch our Ho...

07/11/2024

Donate to a worthy cause 🐧🐧🐧🐧

Well, that escalated quickly!!! 😱🐣🐧

We started the day with 44 hoiho chicks in care, and expect that number to rise to 77 chicks PLUS another very special batch of eggs (more on this soon!) by the end of the day. 📈

To help the vet team care for these penguin chickies, we're launching our 2024 Baby Shower in hopes to raise $30,000 during handrearing season - that's just 10% of our annual hoiho budget.

Can you help? Every contribution helps, and any donation over $5 qualifies for a tax receipt. Two easy ways to give:

1️⃣ Bank transfer 12-3150-0161217-00 (please include your email address so we can get you a receipt!)

2️⃣ Debit or credit card on our secure giving page https://www.wildlifehospitaldunedin.org.nz/donate

06/11/2024

What Is a F***l Egg Count and Why Is It Important for Your Flock?

A f***l egg count (FEC) is a simple yet valuable test that helps monitor the parasite load in your flock by examining their droppings for worm eggs. By performing a f***l egg count, you can determine if your chickens have internal parasites, such as roundworms or coccidia, and whether they need treatment.

Why is this important?
Internal parasites can significantly affect the health and productivity of your chickens. Worms can cause a range of issues, including weight loss, reduced egg production, poor feather quality, and even death in severe cases. However, overusing deworming medications can lead to resistance, making them less effective over time. That’s where f***l egg counts come in handy.

Benefits of Regular F***l Egg Counts:

Targeted Treatment – FECs allow you to treat only when necessary, reducing the risk of over-medicating your flock.
Monitor Parasite Loads – By tracking the egg count, you can see if your flock’s parasite load is increasing, decreasing, or staying the same over time.
Improve Flock Health – Keeping parasites in check means your chickens will be healthier, more productive, and more resistant to disease.
Cost-Effective – Instead of routinely deworming your flock, which can be costly, FECs help you avoid unnecessary treatments and focus on when intervention is really needed.
Performing a f***l egg count is an easy, non-invasive way to assess the internal health of your flock and manage parasites effectively. With regular monitoring, you can ensure your chickens stay healthy and minimize the impact of worms on their wellbeing.

Faecal Egg Count (New Zealand only) Regular f***l egg counts (FEC) are a great way to monitor your birds for signs of parasite infection. Only when the test indicates worms are present will you then need to step in with a treatment. Checking your flock in this way will help to give you peace of mind...

05/11/2024

Why Grass Isn't a True "Food" for Chickens

Many chicken owners believe that grass is a valuable food source for their flock. While chickens love to forage and peck at grass, it's important to understand that grass doesn’t fall into the same category as their actual food. Instead, it serves a different purpose in their diet and overall well-being.

Chickens are omnivores, meaning they need a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Grass, while rich in fiber and containing small amounts of vitamins like Vitamin A, doesn’t provide the essential nutrients that chickens require for growth, egg production, or maintaining health. It's not a significant source of protein, fats, or energy, which are crucial for their development.

So why do chickens eat grass?
Grass serves more as a supplement to their diet rather than a core food source. When chickens peck at grass, they’re engaging in natural foraging behavior, which keeps them active and stimulated. It also aids in digestion, thanks to the fiber content, and helps keep their digestive system moving smoothly. Additionally, grass can provide some hydration and trace vitamins, but it simply doesn’t offer the dense nutritional value they need.

The bulk of a chicken’s diet should come from a formulated poultry feed that’s specifically designed to meet their nutritional requirements, including protein, energy, and vital nutrients. Grass can be a beneficial treat, but it shouldn’t replace their primary diet.

In short, grass is great for chickens to forage on and stay busy, but it shouldn’t be relied upon as a key source of nutrition. To keep your chickens healthy and productive, be sure their primary food source is a well-balanced feed. Grass is just a little bonus!

04/11/2024

Thinking of transitioning your bird onto a pellet diet? I've written a guide for you! 💚
https://www.avianempire.co.nz/pages/pellet-conversion

02/11/2024

How to Curb Hormonal Behavior in Parrots During Spring/Summer

As spring rolls around, many parrot owners notice changes in their bird's behavior—more vocalizations, territorial aggression, or even nesting tendencies. This is normal, as spring is breeding season for most parrots, and their hormones can spike during this time. While hormonal behavior is natural, it can sometimes lead to unwanted behaviors in pet parrots. Here are some tips to help curb hormonal behavior and keep your parrot calm and happy during the season.

1. Reduce Daylight Hours
In the wild, longer daylight signals the breeding season. To help manage your parrot's hormones, try to mimic shorter days by covering their cage earlier in the evening or moving them to a quiet, dark room for 10-12 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Reducing their exposure to light can trick their body into thinking it's not time to breed.

2. Avoid Nesting Triggers
Parrots in breeding mode will often seek out cozy, dark places to nest. Avoid providing them with access to small, enclosed spaces like under furniture, blankets, or boxes. Also, rearranging their cage frequently can prevent them from getting too comfortable and seeing it as a potential nest site.

3. Limit Petting to the Head and Neck
Parrots are highly sensitive to touch, and petting their back, wings, or tail can stimulate hormonal responses similar to mating behavior. Stick to gentle scratches on the head and neck to show affection without triggering breeding instincts.

4. Control Their Diet
Rich, high-fat foods can encourage hormonal behavior. While it’s important to offer a balanced diet, try to reduce high-energy foods like seeds, nuts, or sugary fruits during the spring. Instead, focus on fresh vegetables and formulated pellet diets to help manage their energy levels and keep hormones in check.

5. Encourage Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Keeping your parrot active and engaged can help distract them from hormonal urges. Introduce new toys, foraging opportunities, and activities that encourage climbing, chewing, and problem-solving. Regular out-of-cage time and interactive play sessions can also help release excess energy and keep their mind occupied.

6. Stay Calm and Consistent
During this time, your parrot may become more vocal or show signs of aggression. It's important to remain calm and consistent in your interactions. Avoid rewarding undesirable behavior, and instead, reinforce positive actions with treats, attention, or playtime.

7. Consult a Vet if Necessary
If your parrot's hormonal behavior becomes excessive or leads to self-destructive behaviors like feather plucking or chronic aggression, consult your avian vet. In some cases, they may recommend environmental adjustments or even hormone therapy to help regulate your bird’s behavior.

Managing hormonal behavior in parrots during spring can be challenging, but with these steps, you can help your feathered friend navigate this time smoothly while maintaining a positive bond. Consistency, patience, and understanding are key to curbing these behaviors and keeping your parrot happy and healthy.

02/11/2024

Have you got COXIPROL in your first aid kit‽

It's coccidiosis season, a time when young chicks are especially vulnerable to this intestinal protozoa. Having Coxiprol in your first aid kit is essential—it’s a go-to treatment that can help manage and prevent outbreaks. Keep an eye out for clinical signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, ruffled feathers, diarrhea, or even bloody droppings. These symptoms signal a serious need for attention, as coccidiosis can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Coxiprol Coxiprol is an effective anticoccidial medication designed to effectively combat coccidiosis, a common and harmful poultry disease caused by protozoan parasites. This specialised treatment plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and productivity of poultry flocks by preventing and co...

01/11/2024

Congratulation Dunedin Wildlife Hospital for being named Avian Charity of the Month for October! Keep up the amazing work! 💚 $695 is coming your way.

31/10/2024

Last day to vote! It’s another close one!

30/10/2024

We love a happy ending! Posting with permission from Tuk Tuks mum Sally 🧡

Tuk Tuk's Story

"Hi Sam and Jemma,
It has been a while since we connected, and I thought you may be interested in an update on 'sick chook' affectionately now known as "Tuk Tuk".

In April earlier this year, at 4 weeks old, you gave me the support when you diagnosed Mareks Disease.
She has made a 99% recovery and integrated back with the other chooks. I was a little nervous about her joining the flock - but there have been no further illnesses and they all sleep, dust bath, eat and do all the normal chook things together!

At approx 3 or 4 months - the paralysis switched from her left leg to her right! With clawed foot and no flexibility.
Now at 7 months old, her right foot is slightly in-turned - and she walks with a slight limp - but other than that she runs, and walk at speed!

It took approx 5 months for her to recover - but we got there in the end and have a very happy, social chook."

25/10/2024

Beak and Nail Overgrowth in Pet Birds: Signs of Liver Issues and the Importance of a Healthy Diet

Beak and nail overgrowth in pet birds is more than just a cosmetic issue—it can be a sign of underlying health problems, particularly liver disease. The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing nutrients and maintaining overall health. When it’s not functioning properly, your bird’s beak and nails can grow excessively and unevenly, leading to discomfort and difficulty in eating or perching.

Connection to Liver Issues
Liver disease in birds can be caused by various factors, including poor diet, infections, toxins, or genetics. The liver is responsible for processing fats, proteins, and vitamins, so when it’s compromised, these nutrients aren’t absorbed properly, leading to deficiencies and imbalances. One of the early signs of liver dysfunction in birds is abnormal beak and nail growth. If you notice your bird’s beak becoming overgrown, flaky, or soft, or their nails growing unusually long and brittle, it’s essential to consider the health of their liver.

The Role of Diet
A well-balanced diet is critical in preventing liver issues and supporting overall health. Birds require a diet rich in high-quality, varied foods that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Here’s what a good diet for your pet bird should include:

Pelleted Diet: A formulated pellet diet ensures your bird receives balanced nutrition. Look for pellets that are free from artificial colors and preservatives.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Provide a variety of fresh produce, such as leafy greens, carrots, berries, and apples. These foods are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which support liver function and overall health.
Healthy Fats: Incorporate healthy fats from sources like seeds (in moderation) and nuts, which are vital for energy and cell function.

Supporting Liver Health with Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a well-known herbal remedy that can be particularly beneficial for supporting liver health in birds. It contains silymarin, a compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect and repair liver cells. Adding milk thistle to your bird’s diet can aid in detoxifying the liver and improving its function.

Milk thistle can be given in various forms, such as powders, extracts, or added to food. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any supplements to ensure the correct dosage and that it’s appropriate for your bird’s specific needs.

Regular Veterinary Care
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor your bird’s liver health, especially if you notice signs of overgrowth in their beak or nails. Your vet can perform tests and provide guidance on dietary adjustments, supplements like milk thistle, or treatments needed to support liver function.

By maintaining a nutritious, balanced diet, incorporating milk thistle for liver support, and keeping an eye on your bird’s beak and nails, you can help prevent liver issues and ensure your feathered friend stays healthy and happy.

24/10/2024

The Importance of Pain Relief for Birds: Advocate for Your Feathered Friends
Birds experience pain just like any other animal, whether due to injuries, illnesses, surgeries, or chronic conditions. However, they are experts at masking discomfort, often showing only subtle signs such as changes in behavior, reduced appetite, or altered posture.
Unmanaged pain can lead to serious consequences for your bird, including a weakened immune system, slower recovery, and long-term behavioral changes like aggression or withdrawal. Chronic pain can also cause significant stress, which further exacerbates health issues.
Providing appropriate pain relief is essential not only for your bird’s comfort but also for their overall well-being and recovery. Unfortunately, in New Zealand, many vets may not routinely prescribe pain relief for birds. This makes it crucial for you as a pet owner to advocate for your bird's needs. If you believe your bird is in pain and your vet doesn’t suggest pain relief, don’t hesitate to question them about it. Ensuring your bird receives proper pain management is a vital part of their care.
By being proactive and informed, you can help ensure your bird leads a happier, healthier life, free from unnecessary pain.