Inflamed Oil Gland

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mommabird

Inflamed Oil Gland

Post by mommabird » Tue Aug 16, 2011 8:42 pm

Hi all - hope I'm in the right place! I have been hand rearing a zebra since he was 4 days old, and we are in the process of weaning now! His name is Elvis. This is my first rodeo, so I have been on this forum researching the whole hand feeding process. And now I'm hoping for more advice.

Elvis' new favorite activity is playing in the water while I wash my face every day. While he was wet, I noticed a bump on the top of his tail with something that looks similar to a whitehead. After researching, I learned that it is his preening gland. But after probably too much research, I am now a paranoid new mother and want to make sure his is normal, but can't find any pictures of a normal gland!

I took some pictures right after his bath today (his feathers look fine when he's dry) and would appreciate any feedback! I don't want to mess with it if it is healthy, but don't want to risk it being infected or blocked. He acts fine and is eating plenty of formula & seed mixture. Thanks for the help! He is my spoiled baby - I will have to post my pictures of him growing up.

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L in Ontario
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Re: Inflamed Oil Gland

Post by L in Ontario » Tue Aug 16, 2011 9:18 pm

I cannot see your image but the bump you refer to - just avoce the tail with a whitehead - is their preening gland. Every bird has one. It's purpose is to provide them with oil to preen their feathers.
Liz

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