Lovebird with Cerebral Palsy

Maggie is a four year old lovebird. She was stepped on by her mother bird when only a few days old. This destroyed one of her eyes, crushed part of her head and left her with the bird equivalent of cerebral palsy. As a consequence of her neurological deficits, she cannot fly or stand. The breeder did not want to see her come to harm, so she gave her to me. I have her in an adaptive cage with rope perches. She is able to eat on her own, and even drinks water from her bowl by hanging upside down over it! She gets supplemental spoon feedings of baby bird formula and water to make sure she is well nourished and hydrated. You should see Maggie play! She climbs all over her cage, chirping and playing with the toys. She can get in and out of a soft hanging shelter on her own. And she loves attention, and gets daily cuddle time. Some people would think she should have been put to sleep, but if you watch her, you'd know for certain that she has a fine life! Photo submitted by Debi Garceau-McGarry