Hypoglycaemia (seizures/fits) in falcons

Cause: Reducing weight too quickly or more than necessary, hunger + exertion + cold/heat, especially in small falcons (merlin, kestrel, males) · Type: Metabolic

Other names: Collapse، Fits، Bird dizziness، Convulsion

Symptoms

• Tremor and loss of balance
• Eyes half closed and feathers fluffed
• Falling off the perch
• Convulsions and loss of consciousness

Diagnosis

Weight history (rapid drop) + glucose measurement.

First aid

If neurological signs appear (fits/convulsions/inability to stand): wrap the falcon in a towel with the wings folded and the legs back under the tail and the head out so it can breathe, and take it immediately to the veterinary hospital (SWFH).

Treatment

Emergency: warmth and giving a fast sugar source (glucose) by mouth if the bird is conscious, then easily digestible food and a trip to the vet. If unconscious, put nothing in its mouth; go to the vet immediately.

Prevention

Reduce weight gradually, weigh daily, do not go below the recorded 'flying weight', give an adequate meal on cold days or after heavy exertion.

Season

Start of the season during conditioning/weight reduction (October-November); an estimate.

Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.