Balance problems

[Red_Rose]

What can cause balance problems in zebra finches? My Wayne has been experiencing some balance problems the last couple of days. He can perch, he eats well, and even flies around with no problems. He's also singing and doing his usual finch things including preening Sammy. The only difference now is his balance.

When he tries to preen his tail and vent area as well as trying to get an itch, that's when you see the balance problems in him. To a much lesser extent, you'll see it a bit when he hops onto the swing but he has never fallen off of it or when he is hopping quickly on the perch. It also looks like he has a difficult time lifting either of his legs to scratch his head. The area around his vent also looks a little more puffed than usual but I have checked his vent and it doesn't look swollen. Also, when I have the lights off for the night, he seems to fall off the perch. When I just have a small 25 watt light on that's at the other end of the room so it just barely lights that area where the cage is located, he stays on the perch with no problems. Should I set up a nightlight for him?

I've heard of twirling and other balancing illnesses and he doesn't sound like any of them. If you took away the balance problems, he would be his usual ol' self. What do you all think could be going on?

p.s. His droppings are also normal and the odd time when he's perched for the night, he will sleep with his tail up in the air but it's never for a long period of time.

[finchmix22]

he may have injured his toes or sprained something. Id offer him perches of different width, like natural ones. Keep us posted.

[Red_Rose]

finchmix22 I've thought about that. Even though I don't like the thought of my Wayne being hurt, it could be a lot worse.

I'll definitely keep you posted. Thank you.