Feather Checks
When bird patients come in with feather damage or sustain feather damage in captivity, it is important for us to monitor their feather status, growth, and overall condition. Primary feathers on birds are on the outer part of the wing. These feathers attach to the metacarpal and phalange bones. These feathers are important for thrust. When examining these feathers, we number them from 0-1, like a keyboard, or from 10-1, working from the outside in. We also examine the secondary flight feathers and the tail. Secondary flight feathers attach to the ulna and assist in lift. The two medial tail feathers attach to the pygostyle and assist in steering during flight. Click on the picture below to see some of the case details.
