Curiosity question Deb - how did you determine the exact cause (positively) of the constricted toe(s)? Also curious as to how you tried to remove the band of constricting skin yourself?

Isn't this a problem that is made worse by the vet waiting approx. a week to correct. Probably not since he/she did not have you come in sooner?

Great questions! I have seen about a dozen cases of constricted toes this year on everything from Macaws, Cockatoos, Greys to Caiques. Each one was taken to the AV for diagnosis and treatment with various outcomes and complications. While it is not 100% known the cause of constricted toes, humidity seems to be the most common reason. And to see it across such a broad spectrum of birds (yet ones predisposed to this affliction), all in different environments and raised by different breeders, helps to solidify this determination. As per instructed by the AV, I used a scalpel to cut and dig away at the constricting band of skin. Great care was taken to not damage ligaments/tendons and extreme care to prevent infection. I was not successful so now it is time to take them in and have the toes removed to prevent further trouble in their lives. I saw one Macaw that was allowed to keep her constricted toe, partial constriction mind you, and in the end amputation was needed as the toe had nerve damage and she would hit it on things and chew at it causing massive amounts of bleeding.

As for not coming in sooner.. this was something that showed up weeks ago and I have been working on correcting. Constricted toes show up normally about three weeks of age, and these were right on schedule. I have a very close working relationship with my AV and she allows me to provide treatment at home under her direction. She is quite busy these days and this works well for both of us. If I run into trouble, I am always welcome to drop off birds for emergency care.



As an added bonus... I was very pleased to find a web site that shows the growth stages of a Yellow Thighed Caique from hatch to weaning. My guys are perfectly right on schedule! Whew! WBC are much slower in development than a BHC. At 6 weeks of age, a BHC is covered with pins where as the WBC is just starting to get pins.

WBC - Running Bird Caique Pictures

BHC - Black Headed Caiques

Simply amazing.

Thanks for the info. Deb... Here is some added info. I found. If ya already are aware of all this, great. I am also providing it for the newbies and others interested.

Will be interested in hearing how it goes at the vet. Thanks again.

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Thanks for the info guys! I have never heard of this before. I hope the babies have a speedy recovery.

Thank you this so interesting.


Also interesting - thanks

Thank you for the article. I have the same information in my medical book.

I'll be sure to keep you updated after the vet appointment. Today, I will DNA and vaccinate for Polyoma. I just can't believe how fast they are growing up!

Beautiful babies! I'm sorry about their constricted toes but i'm sure they will do just fine without them! Great job raising them, they are both so cute. I have several friends of mine that are also dealing with constricted toes in babies. One breeds eclectus and has a male with a single constricted toe, the other is dealing with constricted toes on a baby hyacinth macaw. I do know in the case of the hyacinth baby there was nothing wrapped around the toe to cause a problem and the humidity in FL is more then high enough. The avian vet determined that the baby was suffering from some sort of fungal infection that caused the toe to become constricted. I believe there was a specific name for it but the name eludes me today. When I was told that I did some reading up about it online and found that constricted toe can be caused by some sort of fungal infection which can cause hair like growths which restrict blood flow. It is truly amazing to me all of the things that are learned about avian care as time goes on. Just wanted to say those babies look great and I very much look forward to updates!

Thanks for sharing the pics Deb, they are adorable. Good luck!

And here they are at 8 weeks old now....





I am happy to report that no medical services were needed for their toes. My diligence and knowledge paid off and they have all normal toes now. Whew! They received a perfect, clean bill of health, for 7 week old babies, and will go back for the final check upon weaning. Tomorrow is vaccination and DNA day. I was advised by my AV to wait until they were 8 weeks old for vaccination as they appear to be doing so well now.

I am so proud of these little fids! I love them dearly. I am also proud to announce they both have found exceptional homes with very knowledgeable folks. This could not have gone any better.

They look great Deb. Good job!!

Could you please be more specific on how you corrected their toe problems (?) as last time they were scheduled for the vet to help with that? I'll then file your info. to help myself deal with same if any of my babies ever have that problem. Thanks.