Masked Owl - Nswfmpa.org

muscles should fill the sternum almost to the level of the carina/keel the muscle mass canbe given a grading depending on the degree of muscle wasting.Figure 12 shows the grading of keel muscle mass(Birds 2000)A system uses four grades to describethe cross sectional appearance of themuscle mass as severe (grade 4),marked (grade 3) moderate (grade 2)or mild Grade 1) pectoral muscleatrophy. There is frequently a smallfat pad located at the caudal border ofthe thoracic inlet onto the sternum;this pad will be large in obese birds.WingsBegin the examination by flexing and extending the wing, feel from shoulder to tip ofwing for any abnormalities. Pay careful attention to the condition of feathers, especiallyprimary and secondary regimes.AbdomenThe only part of the abdominal area that is palpable is immediately caudal to the sternumand extends to the vent region. Usually in this area the body wall makes a slightlyconcave line running from the sternal border to the base of the tail. This area should beassessed for distention and for discreet masses. The pubic bones are not fused.VentThe vent lips should be smooth and free of urofaeces or debris. The underlying tailfeathers should be clean and have no urofaecal staining. The vent lips normally have asymmetrical, slightly oval shape, in ovulating females the vent lips will become moreelongated in preparation of the passing egg. The proctodeal mucosa should be a smooth,healthy pink.Pelvic limbsBegin at pelvis, flex and extend hip stifle and hock joints while feeling the femur,tibiotarsus, metatarsals and phalanges. Examine top and sole of each foot for areas ofabnormal wear and ulcerations.Skin and feathersAsses the complete feather covering of bird. Checking if feathers appear worn orabnormal, if the bird is going through a normal molt, if there are excess flakes, crusts orother skin lesions present.After the physical examination and the owl has been released take a few minutes toobserve the demeanor, respitry rate, and stance of bird. The bird’s respiratory rate shouldreturn to normal in less than 2 minutes for a standard examination.33