I’m so very sad to hear your bird has PBFD (Pssitacine Beak and Feather Disease).

It is sometimes called “French Molt” and it is a virus that attacks growing tissue in young birds under 3 years of age. Feather follicles is where this virus attacks and as you have described, it can also affect the beak (usually the upper beak) and occasionally the toenails.

PBFD is not curable but some birds do produce antibodies and survive. Once a bird has PBFD and survives it is then resistant to this disease. There was some research on a vaccine but I am unsure how successful that project was.

When buying a bird, a vet or breeder can perform a simple blood test that will detect PBFD. The age at which a bird is exposed can also affect how the disease progresses. It seems to generally be much quicker and more severe, the younger the bird is when it is exposed.

If the birds beak continues to degrade, sadly I don’t know how your bird will be able to nurish itself and keep itself entertained with toys – and it would become totally reliant upon you for food and water. I suggest, if you have not already, speak with an bird expert such as Dr James Gill – 02 9604 9792 – Canley Heights Vet Clinic in Sydney or select your state from http://www.birdmunchies.com.au/associations/index.htm to find a local Avian Vet in your area to make sure you have been informed correctly with all of the options. Then, no matter which decision you make, I can tell you have been a caring owner, and it has been the right one.

Good luck.

It sounds like the bird has escaped locally as you said you found this bird in your back yard, and that the previous owner did not pay attention to the bird’s diet and habits. Lipomas are fatty tumors usually located on the lower part of the abdomen or under the wings. If left untreated they can become enormous in size. The best prevention is a good diet and exercise and should they become ulcerated or start to affect a birds movement, they should be surgically removed.

I think you would be better trying to keep the food given to the bird a low in fat as possible, and try to give the bird plenty of fruits and vegetables in the diet. The bird might refuse them at first, but if you are a bit ‘tough’ and not give in, the bird will eventually eat it.

Good luck.

Yes, you can tame a wild bird somewhat and if the bird is quite young, it will be easier than an older bird. If you are able to feed the bird by hand (or with a spoon), and you are in a position to give it somewhere safe to rest and keep warm, the bird will develop a level of trust with you and your relationship can grow from there, but it is not always guaranteed.

I would certainly take the bird to a vet or wildlife rescue to get the wing looked at and to make sure the bird does not have any other internal injuries. The vet can also perform some simple tests for common illnesses and check the birds eyes, hearing etc. to make sure all is well. There are also supplements you can add into the water you give the bird which can also improve the health of a bird.