Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Angel wing occurs when feathers grow faster than does the underlying bone struc-
ture. The outer wing feathers jut out an angle similar to the angle of airplane wings.
Once it forms, the bones remain in that direction and cannot be reversed.
This condition is not harmful to the bird nor is it a genetic defect that can be passed
on to the next generation. It doesn't make the bird weaker or more prone to disease.
It is just a cosmetic issue that makes the fowl less visually appealing. The birds can
never fly, but can live long and happy lives.
Angel wing
Poultry don't have the same problem with eating poisonous plants as do larger for-
aging livestock. I have never seen fowl eat anything that can harm them. If it doesn't
taste good, they seem to avoid it. I do steer my birds clear of pokeberries, as the bright
purple berries attract them; even though it's been documented that birds can tolerate the
toxins, pokeberries are poisonous to mammals, so why take a chance. I've seen them
forage through poison ivy, hairy vetch, and numerous other plants that make other spe-
cies sick and have never had a problem.
Shelters
Day-old ducklings require care and protection from excessive heat, cold, and drafts.
Ducklings are very hardy, however, so after a few days, the requirements for heat and
tender care are reduced drastically. Refer to
chapter 4
, Baby Basics, for specifics.
