marika.solo wrote: ↑11 Apr 2026, 19:06
Can it be a small injury caused by a pellet or another small projectile? The bill is hard, so a pellet often doesn’t get embedded but only causes a “dent” or a small chip in the surface layer.
Of course, it could be an injury caused by a shotgun pellet.
I found this information on the internet :
A pathological "hole" in a stork's beak, or a defect in the horny tissue (rhamphotheca), is most often the result of mechanical trauma, infection, or a chronic disease process. Unlike natural anatomical openings (e.g., nostrils), a hole in the side or back of the beak requires veterinary intervention.
Causes of pathological defects:
Mechanical injuries: Storks are often subject to accidents (hitting power lines, collisions with vehicles, fights between males). This can lead to cracks, fractures, and, consequently, loss of horny tissue.
Bacterial or fungal infections: Necrosis of the beak caused by infection can lead to rotting and the loss of pieces of the horny covering. Effects of parasites: Although less common in storks than in parrots, scabies or other parasites can damage the structure of the beak, causing it to become porous and cause cavities.
