![MynaJ-tarsus deformity [KCTsang]](https://besgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/MynaJ-tarsus-deformity-KCTsang.jpg)
“Managed to get a picture of the tarsus of a Javan Myna (Acridotheres javanicus) this morning.
“I have noticed this deformity for some time. However it does not affect the bird’s every day function.
“Maybe some one out there could have an explanation for this growth?”
KC Tsang
Singapore
18th March 2017
This post is a cooperative effort between Birds, Insects N Creatures Of Asia and BESG to bring the study of birds and their behavior through photography and videography to a wider audience.
If you like this post please tap on the Like button at the left bottom of page. Any views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the authors/contributors, and are not endorsed by the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum (LKCNHM, NUS) or its affiliated institutions. Readers are encouraged to use their discretion before making any decisions or judgements based on the information presented.
Thanks to your continued support in making the website one of the top bird behaviour blogs around, we now have a dedicated domain.
Any views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the authors/contributors, and are not endorsed by the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum (LKCNHM, NUS) or its affiliated institutions. Readers are encouraged to use their discretion before making any decisions or judgements based on the information presented.
5 responses
Dear Tsang, at first glance (as a medical doctor) I was wondering if this was overgrowth due to a previous fracture. But the bone/limb look straight and not deformed so less likely. Possibly some disease with a growth.
Amar
Thanks Dr Amar-Singh HSS, yes must be some thing that causes this unusual growth….
K C
Looks like Hyperkeratosis on the leg.
Thanks for the above Tammy. See http://www.starlingtalk.com/hyperkeratosis.htm
Hyperkeratosis is very common in caged songbirds that have been fed a diet which is too dry and which lacks the correct nutrients.
Just visit any of the places where hobbyists bring their songbirds to socialise. You will notice this condition, especially among the older birds.
For convenience, many hobbyists do not give their birds sufficient insects and fruit in their diet, as these result in messy and watery stools.
On the incorrect diet, over a period of years, the birds will develop this condition.