This makes it easy for us to hold or separate them when vet care or capture is needed. Each morning the birds know to walk into the feeding area and are used to being locked in while feeding. What we have done to solve this is to create a high walled, fenced in area, where we have trained the waterbirds to come in for food. If a bird is injured or in need of routine vet care, how do you catch them? Since they can easily run or fly to the pond, out of reach, this can be tricky. This is to protect them from getting stuck in the ice or getting caught by predators such as fox, coyotes, or mountain lions. If we notice multiple days of severe cold ahead, we plan to catch all our waterbirds and put them in temporary housing, normally stalls, until it warms up and the pond unfreezes. Our staff is always aware of the upcoming weather. When we get multiple in a row the ponds will freeze. But being in the beautiful state of Colorado means that we do get some negative degree days. This does help keep our ponds open during most of the winter. Speaking of water…what happens in the winter? As mentioned before, we have aerators that move the pond water continuously. Which can help decrease algae, unhealthy bacteria, and mosquitos. Aerators, or as we call them-BUBBLERS , also help improve the quality of your pond by moving the water. If the amount of the natural bacteria in your pond decreases or can’t compete with the level of toxins, you should think about purchasing an additive to replenish the natural bacteria and get your water levels back to a healthy state. Normally, ponds contain certain bacteria that detoxify ammonia and phosphates. Because of this, it is helpful to purchase a water testing kit so you can keep track of these levels. This organic matter can lead to high levels of ammonia and phosphates. Since many wild and domestic birds use our ponds, there is also a lot of feces and organic matter entering our water system. Water quality is another important factor of our bird care. A pond is also helpful as they are less likely to hurt their feet while swimming.
#Goose goose duck canadian goose free
Ways to decrease the likelihood of bumblefoot include monitoring and keeping the living area for the birds free of debris, fallen branches, trash, etc.
The infection usually starts by the foot getting scraped, poked, or cut by walking on something sharp. Bumblefoot can be treated with antibiotics or Epsom salts, but if not treated can be fatal. For these birds, our pond is how they keep themselves clean, maintain healthy feet, and exhibit natural foraging behaviors.Įver heard of bumblefoot? Bumblefoot is a staph infection that can occur in the feet of many animals including geese, ducks, chickens, mice, and rabbits. Having access to water is vital to all animals, but especially to our waterbirds. Of course, the Canada geese and other wild birds also like to join from time to time. Did you know that Zoology is home to 21 domestic waterfowl? Our ponds are currently home to 4 Mute swans, 13 Sebastopol and Embden geese, and 4 ducks.
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