Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research, Inc.

This juvenile Great Blue Heron was knuckling their left hallux, meaning the back toe was tucked underneath the foot instead of extending behind it like normal.

To correct it and prevent any permanent damage, a custom splint was made to keep the back toe extended until it stays there on its own. Thankfully, though this species is known to be difficult in captivity, the splint didn't slow this little one down.

Since the video was taken, the splint has been removed and the bird is standing and walking like normal. The best part— the toe is now staying in its correct spot! Hopefully a release to the bird's family will be the next step in the heron's journey.