Injured young wild pigeon

Question
Hi there.  I have recently aquired a young pigeon.  I watched ahd heard these babies from the minute they were born as the mum and dad took up residence in my stable.  I do no know the sex of this baby.  He/she is 6 weeks old and just learning to fly.  I had just finished sorting my horse out for the evening when I noticed this tail.  This little bird was wondering underneath my horse and in the shavings with a obiously damaged wing.  There are signs of trauma to the wing and it is hanging lower in comparison to the other one.  I brought the bird home and put it in a cage along with some corn and some water.  My idea was to let it rest and then put it back with the other siblings.  That was Wednesday evening.  The wing has begun to tremble but is still hanging lower.  The bird cannot fly but is eating and drinking and allowing me to pick he/she up.  I do not want to socialise the bird if there is any chance the wing can be mended.  I would just appreciate some help.  My forte is equine dog and rodant.  Thanks for your time.  Pippa

Answer
Hi Philippa,

It sound like it might have a broken wing. With time, the wing will heal by itself. Whether or not it heals properly, I cannot say for sure. I also do not know if it will ever be able to fly properly on its own due to the injury. Have you noticed any wounds? If you can take it to be examined by a veterinarian they will provide you will more information as to the extent of the injury. For now, continue to offer it bird seed and water, and make sure it is eating and drinking well. Don't worry about socializing it. In fact, pigeons make great pets and this one is young. If it cannot be released, you might want to consider keeping it as it would not be able to survive on its own. Just keep an eye on it. The wing might not be broken at all and only suffered tissue damage, which might heal in a few days-weeks. Thanks for rescuing the little guy.

Thanks,
Stacie