Monday, April 05, 2010

Meet Peanut

Meet Peanut, an approximately 8 year old Nanday Conure. Look closely; can you see what's wrong with him?
He doesn't have a right foot -- it was completely bitten off by a macaw in his previous home!

Peanut doesn't realize that he has a disability, and has completely adapted to his new life. While I was taking his picture, he quickly scampered up to the shoulder of the volunteer holding him. (Something we're working on as it's generally not wise to allow strange birds on your shoulder so close to your face!)Peanut is a bit cage aggressive, but easily steps up out of his cage if you cover your hand with a towel.

He provides a good reminder of the dangers of multiple birds, especially birds of different sizes. It is very easy for a larger bird to do significant damage to a smaller one, and rigorous care and supervision must be undertaken to prevent instances like the one that deprived Peanut of his leg from happening.

Peanut will require just a bit of accommodation in his new home. Because he is standing on one leg constantly, it is especially important to make sure that he has a wide variety of comfortable perches available to him. That will go a long way in helping to stave off foot problems down the road.

He is so gorgeous and intelligent! If you have room in your flock for Peanut, stop by; he'd love to meet you!

No comments: