Mia,

Vasectomy does not change behaviors. Rather it prevents the males from fertilizing the females and producing viable young. I don’t believe vasectomy will alter escape behaviors.

Sincerely,

M. Scott Echols, DVM, DABVP (Avian)

Dr Ochoa,

Unfortunately, castration in adult cocks does not seem to reduce aggression long term. Short term, they calm down. However, I suspect that is due to the pain of the procedure and post-surgical discomfort. Many of these birds are bred for their aggression- which makes behavior modification somewhat challenging. However, behavior management can be successful with some of the birds. First, we keep them away from other males/cocks. Second, we work on stationing behaviors where the birds are rewarded (usually with food) by stationing in place (positive reward type system). Third, ight neutering is another non-surgical/non-pharmaceutical method to reduce some testosterone based behaviors. Simply put the birds in a dark room over night. Put the bird(s) in the dark room 1 hour before sunset and leave them in until one hour after sunrise.

I hope this offers some ideas and help!

Sincerely,

M. Scott Echols, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice)

Jodi,

Usually, I recommend vasectomy when the birds are young adults. This gives the tissues time to develop making surgery a little easier and the birds typically heal quickly. This can be done with turkeys as well. However, vasectomy is rarely performed in turkeys compared to peacocks.

Sincerely,

M. Scott Echols, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice)

What age should you vasectomize a peafowl? if the peafowl is not with any other poultry or peafowl for the 6-7 months will it get lonely and will it damage any relationship I have with my peacock, dose it work on turkeys?

Thank you.

Jodi,

While I am not sure I completely understand your question, I will say that there are always risks associated with anesthesia, surgery and giving any medications. While no one can guarantee ‘risk free’ anesthesia, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce risk of a procedure. Regarding cutting vessels during a vesectomy, if done properly there is very little bleeding associated with the procedure. Small vessels may be cut during the operation and cause minor bleeding. However, it is rare that significant bleeding occurs as a result of a vasectomy. Because the testicle is left intact, there is no change in hormonal production. Once healed, the birds return to normal behavior. I hope these responses answer your questions.

Sincerely,

M. Scott Echols, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice)

Gordonc12345@gmail.com,

With outdoor ducks (essentially wild) ducks, it will be very difficult to control breeding. While we have options for pet ducks, they are not easy for wild birds. In this situation, your best option is to addle the eggs as they are laid (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goose_egg_addling). Done properly, this prevents eggs from hatching.

Happy Holidays,

M. Scott Echols, DVM, DABVP (Avian Practice)