Broken bones in the common pigeon
Gregory, N.G.; Wilkins, L.J.
Veterinary Record 128(7): 154
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 2028576 Document Number: 368149
Two-hundred-and-four pigeons (175 feral and 29 racing birds) that had been trapped in cages on rooftops in Bristol City, UK and subsequently killed were dissected and examined for old healed fractures of the limbs and abdomen. Nine (4.4%) of the pigeons had old fractures and the incidence was slightly greater in the feral birds. Only 4 types of bone were broken; the furcula in 7 birds, the femur in 3 birds, a radius in 3 birds (one associated with lead shot) and the keel in one bird. The lower incidence of broken bones in these pigeons compared with that found in perchery chickens, free-range hens and battery birds in previous surveys is discussed.