citation_inspection: 3809

Two turkeys and 6 chickens had significant feather loss. Feather loss can be caused by many factors as previously described under the veterinary care section 2.40(b)(2). There are no records of observations for any of these birds, treatment records, or record of any bird deaths. Birds are not currently on the written program of veterinary care and there was no documentation birds with feather loss were being treated. The bird caretaker stated that the feather loss was due to the normal breeding season (May through August). Caretaker also stated that he was not currently saving the fertilized eggs. He attempted to protect hens with feather loss with saddle covers, but majority of the covers came off. Several chicken enclosures had more than one rooster and the turkey enclosure had two toms. Birds may not be housed with other animals, including their own species, unless they are compatible, do not prevent access to food, water, or shelter areas, and are not hazardous to the health and well-being of each other. Licensee must ensure that birds are compatible and are separated when there are injuries, illness, health concerns, overly aggressive birds, or overbreeding. A new attending veterinarian has been consulted about the feather loss, but she had not visited the facility yet to do an evaluation. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with the facility representative. Additional Inspectors: CHRISTINA RADZAI, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n