09/04/2026
Taking a moment to acknowledge a sweet young lady who was named Marybeth who deserves to be acknowledged.
She was independent but loved her cage mates.
She was in a group of 4 and kept everyone in line
The word 'was' is the keyword.
There are some very sad stories and happenings in the world of rescue and as much as we don't like to think about it or talk about it sharing is necessary and more importantly, informative.
Our goal is not only to rescue and find the birds who come into our care their stable & forever homes, it is to also help fellow bird lovers avoid what can only be described as avoidable heartache.
We'd like to acknowledge the dangers of chronic egg-laying.
Chronic egg laying can increase the risk of serious medical problems including: calcium depletion, egg binding (also known as dystocia), egg yolk peritonitis, reproductive tract or cloacal, weakness and malnutrition, we can bones resulting in fractures, seizures tremors and muscle problems, as well as reproductive tract disease.
After some thorough research and the realization that there's no single solution for every bird, there are steps that can be taken to ensure the well being of your female companion bird.
1-Avoid a seed heavy diet-balanced nutritious diet is the first step..
2-maintain a healthy and consistent day/night schedule with adequate uninterrupted darkness for adequate sleep.
3-remove anything that could be used for nesting material. No nest boxes huts tents or other spaces that encourage nesting behavior.
4-avoid petting or touching your bird's body especially the back wings and lower abdomen-focus affection on the head and neck only.
5-never assume that removing an egg immediately will solve the problem. With some birds, repeatedly removing eggs can encourage them to produce more.
Speak to your avian veterinarian who can help you determine the safest approach.
6-;'dummy eggs' are used to replace a clutch and can be very successful to slow down and even prevent continued egg laying.
*Signs of an emergency*
Straining, sitting on the bottom of the cage, weakness, swollen abdomen, labored breathing, tell bobbing, the inability to perch, blood and droppings, or repeated attempts to lay an egg can indicate a serious reproductive emergency.
Please don't delay if any of these signs are present!
Marybeth passed peacefully at the veterinary hospital- her cause of death was egg yolk peritonitis.
Egg material can escape into the abdominal cavity which causes severe inflammation infection and fluid in the abdomen.
This is a life-threatening illness
In this case, Mary Beth did not exhibit any symptoms until she went to the bottom of the cage and was not able to perch.
She was rushed to the veterinary hospital and presented as agonal in the short time frame from the car to the hospital.
Every step and attempt was made to prevent the loss of Marybeth. Including separation from her flock.
Her foster describes her as gentle, and well mannered.
Her favorite things included listening to her be spoken to
She knew her name and enjoyed the attention and acknowledgement.
Marybeth was laid to rest under a shaded pine tree with a single wildflower growing behind her.
We hope this story and advice is taken into consideration should you be experiencing chronic egg laying with your companion bird(s)
Marybeth will never be forgotten.🖤💚💛
