Mallard advice needed Please

[Gaza]

I have noticed that one of my daily visitor's
A Mallard has got a pronounced limp
His knee joint is swollen
He is able to get about, eat me out of feed and fly off, when the need arises
But tends to stand on one foot or lay down to feed
We are concerned that the limp, which has been noticeable for around a fortnight, is getting no better


Any suggestions Please?
Should i take him to a vet ?

Catching him would not be a problem as he comes to the door for food

[wildliferescuer]

If there is swelling in the joint it could well be a sign of infection & although our advice is usually to leave alone to start with as a limp is often caused by just a minor injury, it sounds to me as if this is probably something that will not improve without treatment.
If you are able to catch him it would be best to let a vet have a look at it, but make sure the vet you are taking it to deals with wildlife & birds.

[Gaza]

Originally Posted by wildliferescuer

If there is swelling in the joint it could well be a sign of infection & although our advice is usually to leave alone to start with as a limp is often caused by just a minor injury, it sounds to me as if this is probably something that will not improve without treatment.
If you are able to catch him it would be best to let a vet have a look at it, but make sure the vet you are taking it to deals with wildlife & birds.

Thanks
That is what we thought
Yes i would make sure that the vet in question deals with wildlife and birds
Wouldn't be interested in taking it to a vet, just to have it destroyed, if it's not necessary

[Gill Catton]

Originally Posted by Gaza

Thanks
That is what we thought
Yes i would make sure that the vet in question deals with wildlife and birds
Wouldn't be interested in taking it to a vet, just to have it destroyed, if it's not necessary

I'd second this idea - esp as this time of year he could have picked up some shot.

Perhaps try to track down a local wildlife rescue too for advice

[Gaza]

Originally Posted by Gill Catton

I'd second this idea - esp as this time of year he could have picked up some shot.

Perhaps try to track down a local wildlife rescue too for advice

Have found and contacted our local Wildlife Rescue, A very helpful young lady at the other end of the phone was reassuring
Now awaiting our friends return, for some fun ( trying to catch him )