I think Penny cracked her beak

I totally messed up! Let Penny out for flight practice, forgetting to 'introduce' her to the window (she'd only ever been out of her cage at dusk) and she flew into the windowpane at full speed. :eek: I think she cracked her beak, poor thing.
She was a bit subdued after that, but I can't see any other changes of behaviour.

• Are the symptoms for concussion in birds the same as in humans? If not, what should I look out for?

• Will the beak heal by itself? She's got grit and oyster shell. Should I also give her a calcium supplement?

Penny does not look hurt (with concussion). You look eyes, and behavior. Eyes are dis-focused, bird acts sleepy, feeding and water intake reduced. Using electric torch on eyes can help you determine if pupil reacts quickly focusing.
Beak is not seriously injured and it will grow and mend by itself. Structure of the beak is more like our nails vitamins A and E are more important than calcium.
You may try gently and carefuly to file tip, just to prevent further cracking.

Hi Teresa,

These are the symptoms of concussion in birds from Beryl M Chapman's Booklet : Homeopathic Treatment for Birds:

Standing with head hanging between the legs, often with head twisted to one side.

Lying down with wings extended and head twisted or held sharply against its neck.

Flapping as if trying to fly with eyes closed and neck twisted or held sharply against neck.

Fluttering round in circles with legs dragging behind it.

Cynthia,
if a bird has a severe concussion - can this be cured - i.e. can it heal again? What is your experience with this and what should you do with the bird then?
I am asking because my suspicion is that our Wally had exactly that. The symptoms were exactly as you described. This would mean that we sentenced him to death by calling the emergency vet who apparently had no idea about birds... This would be very bitter.

Thank you so much, Plamenh and Cynthia!

She's not showing any of those symptoms, thank goodness, in fact a moment ago she was standing and preening herself (and giving me the customary offended look ).

I've got the vitamins, so I'll go and put some in her water. I'll also gently file her beak this evening at medication time.