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Lead is one of the most common heavy metal toxins. The presence and severity of
clinical signs depends on the amount of lead ingested, the size of the particles and the length of time the lead
is in the gastrointestinal tract.
Once ingested, the lead is degraded by acids in the stomach and absorbed into the
bloodstream, once in the bloodstream, lead causes pan systemic damage, particularly to the gastrointestinal, nervous.
Renal and hematopaietic systems.
Clinical signs of lead intoxication in psittacine birds may include lethargy. Depression,
anorexia, weakness droop leg paresis) regurgitation, polyuria, diarrhea, emaciation, head tilt, blindness. Circling,
paralysis, head tremors, convulsions and death. Some birds may die with no clinical signs and others may show only
weakness and weight loss.
Lead is inconspicuously included in many products found around the home and the
precise cause of lead intoxication is frequently undetermined. Unless paints state that they are lead free they
may still have toxic levels of lead in the drying agent rather than in the base. Lead exposure may also occur through
the inhalation of fumes from lead containing gasoline.
Zinc also is another frequently encountered heavy metal that causes toxicity when
ingested. Galvanized wire and the clips used to construct enclosures are common sources. The brighter and shinier
the wire the higher the zinc level. The white rust associated with the galvanized coating is also toxic. Galvanized
containers and dishes are also sources of contamination. Pennies minted before 1982 contain from 96 to 98% zinc.
Monopoly pieces are made of 98% zinc.
Common signs reported in zinc-intoxicated birds include polyuria, gastrointestinal
problems, weight loss. Weakness, anemia (a bluish coloration due to lack of oxygen) hyperglycemia and seizures.
Also other signs noted include lethargy, greenish diarrhea, recumbence and death.
Early diagnosis involves blood work, x-rays and measurement of heavy metals in blood
samples. Prompt treatment saves many birds lives. If you suspect your bird is sick see a competent avian veterinarian
immediately.
Potential sources of lead
Weights (curtains bird toys) bells with lead clappers batteries solder lead pellets
from shotgun shells air rifle pellets lead-based paints (varnishes) lead-free paints with leaded drying agents
hardware cloth galvanized wire (lead and zinc) champagne and wine bottle foils (some) contaminated bone meal and
dolomite products glazed ceramics (especially imported products) contaminated cuttlefish bone stained glass (decorative
glass) lead seam seeds for planting (coating with lead arsenate) some lubricants (lead napthalate) base of light
bulbs linoleum leaded gasoline fumes costume jewelry plaster
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VETERINARY
ASSOCIATES STONEFIELD