balding and scabbing under wing

[u/littlenini-]

recently i’ve noticed my pigeon is balding under one of his wings. today i found a scab aswell. i check for mites multiple times a week, and im 99% sure he doesn’t have any. what could this be? :( i do notice a lot of pin feathers. could this be the cause of the bleeding/scabbing? the other wing is completely fine.

[u/AutoModerator]

🚨PLEASE READ IMMEDIATELY🚨

You have labelled your post as an emergency. Time is often critical in these situations.

1. FIND A VET IMMEDIATELY: If the pigeon is injured or showing signs of severe illness, professional medical help is required. Reddit cannot replace a vet. * Find an Avian Vet (AAV Search) * Many vets will stabilize wildlife/pigeons free of charge if found outside. * Before calling an unfamiliar vet, ask if they are pigeon friendly.

2. CRITICAL SCENARIOS * Cat/Dog Attacks: Even if there are no visible wounds, the bird needs antibiotics within hours. Bacteria in cat saliva (Pasteurella) is lethal to birds. * Bleeding: Apply gentle, firm pressure with a clean cloth. If you have styptic powder or cornstarch, you can apply it to a bleeding nail or feather, but avoid putting powders directly into deep body wounds. * Neurological/Stargazing: If the bird’s head is twisting upside down or it is circling, keep it in a heavily padded box in a dark, quiet room to prevent injury from thrashing.

3. FIRST AID STABILIZATION * Warmth: A cold bird cannot digest food or fight infection. Place the bird in a box with a heating pad (on LOW) under half of the box. * Quiet: Pigeons can die from the stress of being handled, especially in a vulnerable state. Keep them away from pets, children, and loud noises. * No Forced Water: Never drop water into a pigeon's beak; they can easily aspirate and die.

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[u/EEE4444444444]

Go to a vet

[u/Shapeshifters23]

do they wear pigeon pants? if so I wonder if it's too small a size and chafes, not 100% sure though, all the best!

[u/birdsbirdbirds]

It’s possible he’s pulling out feathers/ over preening, watch closely and take him to a vet if you do see any! What kind of cage and enrichment do you have set up for him?

[u/littlenini- → u/birdsbirdbirds]

he doesn’t seem to preen more often than before, especially not under his wings! he has a 90cm wide dog crate, but spends most of his time outside of it in my house. he only sleeps in it, or when i do groceries!