This Lilac-Crowned Amazon is our 100th wild parrot patient of 2026! Sadly, its reason for admission was not so lucky. This parrot was first admitted by our partners at Project Wildlife, after being found on the ground in San Diego with an obvious injury to its right wing. Radiographs revealed the true cause of the trauma: this Amazon had been recently shot, resulting in a large entry wound near the elbow and a comminuted fracture of the ulna, with the pellet now sitting near the wrist. The parrot was quickly seen by our wonderful veterinary team at @avianexotics_pesc, where the wounds were cleaned, the projectile was removed, and the fracture was splinted under anesthesia. Although in stable condition, the prognosis was very guarded given the severity of the injury. After a week under our care (including pain medications, antibiotics, and lots of fresh produce), the Lilac returned to the vet for a recheck yesterday. We are pleased to report that the injuries are healing very well! The fracture is beginning to callus and stabilize, and the wounds are showing improvement. This Amazon still has a long road to recovery, but we're hopeful with continued support, physical therapy, and time to rebuild its flight ability, it will have a second chance in the San Diego skies. Curious about the appearance of its splint? That's a technique we call distraction tabs! As parrots are notorious chewers and very good at removing bandages, the tape distracts from the wrap underneath and gives the patient something to chew on that will not compromise the injury. We also provide these patients with extra enrichment opportunities, like the toy seen in the cage, to keep their attention elsewhere
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