What is a "Special Needs" Bird?

[DebWhite]

There are many categories of "special needs" birds but in general this term implies that the bird needs to have some accomodations made in its environment to enable it to live an enriched and healthy life.

Impairments creating "special needs" can take both a physical and emotional form. Some examples are:

1) Physical deformities such as spinal malformations, paralysis, missing toes or legs, partial beaks

2) Blindness

3) Deafness

4) Emotional issues due to abuse or neglect resulting in phobic and negative behaviors including severe plucking and mutilation.

5) Medical issues requiring ongoing care (i.e. medications, wound management)

[beakerskyler]

I also think the 'other' side of a 'special needs' bird is the caregiver who is more than willing and able to provide above and beyond. Whether that means a particular diet, more one-on-one time, modified structure of cage, playstand or toys, working through medical issues, and/or above everything else, GIVING whatever is necessary to improve the quality of life for that beautiful creature.

[DebWhite]

Good points Andrea! It indeed takes a special person to care for a special needs bird.

[tomtomik101]

I have a pet who was just given to me by one of the commercial window cleaning personnel in our office and I found out that it has a beak deformity. The "special bird" still with me and I still don't know how to properly cure him. Any help? thank you so much!