What is wrong with this Magpie?

Question

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A few months ago a Magpie turned up in our garden with i guess a disabled foot. It appears as though its foot was curled backwards so it is now walking on the joint of its foot. Recently more birds (different species) have developed the exact same condition, birds include; peewee, willy wagtail and a currawong. The birds do not seem to be in much pain but i was wondering if this is a serious problem or if it is contagious and what should i do !!!

Oh and i have only noticed this in birds in our area !!!

Answer 1

That is very strange. I would almost think it is a birth defect, except that you are seeing it in different species which cannot interbreed... although it is interesting that three out of four birds (magpie, peewee, currawong) are members of the crow family, and that the wagtail is also very closely related to crows. That makes me think that it may be a disease of some kind. The first thing that came to mind was that it might be an injury caused by something in your neighborhood that birds try to perch on, and they get one of their feet caught/crushed, except then you would expect this problem to be more widespread among different species.

I can't tell you I know how serious this is, since I live in the USA I don't have very extensive knowledge of the diseases found in Australian birds, but personally, I would contact the local wildlife management group and let them know that this is going on--even show them the photographs so they get a good idea of what you're seeing.

Answer 2

This is not uncoomon,i feed  blackbirds in my garden and there are a few like this, it is just over fighting with other birds but it does not hert them. If you feel its in pain then call the RSPB  and they will take it aaway and try hard to make it better

Answer 3

It is not uncommon for birds to have this deformity, it is some times called Slip Claw.

This often happens in the nest  ,probably through over crowding or a diet problem.

You may be seeing more of this because you are looking out more.

If you think there are more cases than normal notify your nearest Bird Club or Enviromental Authority.