Post-Ovulatory Stasis

Post-ovulatory stasis is a reproductive disorder in female birds where the ovulated yolk fails to progress normally through the oviduct after being released from the ovary. In healthy birds, the yolk moves through the oviduct in approximately 24 to 26 hours, receiving albumen, shell membranes, and finally the calcified shell before being laid. In post-ovulatory stasis, this progression is delayed or halted, causing the yolk to remain stationary in one section of the reproductive tract. This condition differs from egg binding in that the obstruction occurs before complete egg formation rather than involving a fully-formed egg stuck in the lower reproductive tract. Understanding this distinction is important for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

The avian reproductive system is remarkably efficient in healthy birds, with each section of the oviduct performing specific functions as the developing egg passes through. The infundibulum captures the ovulated yolk, the magnum adds albumen, the isthmus forms shell membranes, and the shell gland deposits the calcium carbonate shell. Post-ovulatory stasis can occur at any point along this pathway, though it most commonly affects the infundibulum, magnum, or isthmus regions. When movement stops, the yolk and developing egg components may begin to deteriorate, and inflammation of the oviductal lining often develops. The stagnant material becomes a potential source of infection and can cause progressive illness if not addressed.

The impact of post-ovulatory stasis on affected birds ranges from mild discomfort with full recovery to severe illness potentially resulting in life-threatening complications. Birds in the early stages may show only subtle signs of reproductive distress, while those with prolonged stasis develop significant systemic illness from inflammation, infection, and toxin absorption. Rupture of the stasis material into the coelomic cavity causes egg yolk peritonitis, a serious complication requiring intensive treatment. The severity of impact depends on how long the stasis persists before treatment, whether infection develops, and the overall health status of the bird. Early recognition and treatment significantly improve outcomes.

Treatment for post-ovulatory stasis aims to either stimulate normal progression of the oviductal contents or remove the abnormal material through medical or surgical means. Supportive care including warmth, fluids, and calcium supplementation forms the foundation of treatment. Medical therapy may include hormones to stimulate oviductal contractions and antibiotics to prevent or treat infection. When medical management fails, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the retained material and potentially the affected reproductive tract. Working with an experienced avian veterinarian is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment selection.

Primary causes of post-ovulatory stasis relate to dysfunction of the oviductal muscles and nerves that normally propel the developing egg through the reproductive tract. Calcium deficiency is one of the most significant contributing factors, as adequate calcium is essential not only for shell formation but also for proper muscle contraction throughout the oviduct. Hypocalcemia causes muscular weakness that prevents effective peristaltic movement of oviductal contents. Hormonal imbalances affecting the coordinated release of hormones that regulate oviductal function can disrupt normal progression. Structural abnormalities of the oviduct, including strictures, adhesions, and masses, may physically impede movement of the developing egg.

Genetic and species-related factors influence susceptibility to post-ovulatory stasis through inherited differences in reproductive physiology. Species prone to chronic egg-laying, including cockatiels, budgerigars, and lovebirds, experience higher rates of reproductive complications including stasis. These species may have been selectively bred for high reproductive output, which can compromise the efficiency of their reproductive systems over time. Individual birds may have anatomical variations in oviductal structure that predispose to inefficient egg movement. Genetic tendencies toward nutritional abnormalities or hormonal dysfunction may contribute to stasis development in certain family lines.

Environmental and husbandry factors significantly contribute to post-ovulatory stasis development. Diets deficient in calcium, vitamin D3, or other nutrients essential for reproductive function predispose birds to oviductal dysfunction. Sedentary lifestyle reduces muscle tone throughout the body, potentially affecting oviductal muscle function. Stress from environmental factors, handling, or other causes can disrupt hormonal regulation of reproduction. Temperature extremes, particularly cold conditions, may slow oviductal motility. Chronic reproductive stimulation leading to continuous egg-laying depletes nutritional reserves and fatigues the reproductive tract. Inappropriate lighting schedules that extend reproductive cycling contribute to cumulative reproductive system stress.

Risk factors for post-ovulatory stasis include age, reproductive history, and general health status. Older hens with extensive egg-laying histories face increased risk due to accumulated wear on the reproductive tract. Previous episodes of egg binding, salpingitis, or other reproductive disorders may leave residual damage that predisposes to stasis. Obesity interferes with normal abdominal muscle function and may impair oviductal contractions. Systemic illness affecting overall muscle function or metabolism increases stasis risk. Birds recovering from other conditions may have temporarily compromised reproductive function. First-time layers occasionally experience stasis as their reproductive systems establish normal function.

The mechanism of post-ovulatory stasis development involves failure of the coordinated muscular and hormonal processes that move the developing egg through the oviduct. Normally, ovulation triggers a cascade of hormonal signals that coordinate oviductal function. The infundibulum captures the yolk, and successive peristaltic contractions move it through each oviductal section at appropriate intervals. When calcium deficiency, muscle weakness, hormonal dysfunction, or physical obstruction interferes with this process, the yolk stops advancing. The stationary yolk then causes local inflammation, which further impairs muscle function and creates a self-perpetuating cycle. If the stasis persists, the oviductal wall may weaken, potentially rupturing and releasing contents into the coelomic cavity.

Early warning signs of post-ovulatory stasis may be subtle and easily confused with normal pre-laying behavior. Birds may show initial signs of preparing to lay, including increased appetite, spending time in nest-like areas, and assuming postures associated with egg production. However, the expected egg does not appear within the normal timeframe. Early on, the bird may appear slightly uncomfortable, with mild fluffing of feathers or reduced activity. Appetite may begin to decline as discomfort increases. These early signs are often missed because birds naturally hide illness and because early stasis resembles the beginning of normal egg-laying. Owners familiar with their bird's typical laying patterns are most likely to notice that something is different.

Common symptoms of post-ovulatory stasis become more apparent as the condition progresses. The bird typically shows decreased appetite, progressing to complete anorexia in severe cases. Lethargy and reduced activity are common, with the bird spending more time resting on the cage floor or lowest perch. Abdominal distension may be visible or palpable as the retained material and associated inflammation accumulate. Droppings often become abnormal, with decreased volume, changes in color, or increased water content. Straining or tail-wagging movements may be observed as the bird attempts to pass the non-existent complete egg. General signs of illness including fluffed feathers, partially closed eyes, and decreased interest in surroundings develop.

Behavioral changes associated with post-ovulatory stasis reflect the discomfort and systemic effects of the condition. Activity levels typically decrease significantly, with affected birds becoming reluctant to fly, climb, or engage in normal activities. Social interaction often diminishes, with previously interactive birds becoming withdrawn. Vocalization may decrease or change in character, with some birds making sounds of discomfort. Sleep patterns are often disrupted, with restlessness or excessive sleeping observed. Interest in food, toys, and normal activities declines as the bird's condition worsens. Some birds become unusually irritable when handled, while others seek increased contact with their owners.

Physical signs of post-ovulatory stasis visible to owners include abdominal distension, which may be subtle initially but becomes more pronounced over time. The bird may adopt abnormal postures, holding the body low or standing with a wide-based stance. Breathing may appear labored as abdominal swelling compresses air sacs. The vent area may appear moist or have discharge in some cases. Feathers may become fluffed and unkempt as the bird stops normal preening. Weight loss occurs as appetite decreases, and the keel bone may become more prominent. Overall appearance deteriorates, with the bird looking increasingly unwell as the condition progresses.

Symptom progression in post-ovulatory stasis follows a pattern of increasing severity if treatment is not provided. Initial mild discomfort progresses to obvious illness over days. Appetite decreases progressively until the bird stops eating entirely. Abdominal distension increases as inflammation and fluid accumulation develop. Signs of systemic illness including weakness, lethargy, and poor responsiveness become apparent. If the stasis material ruptures into the coelomic cavity, sudden deterioration occurs with signs of peritonitis and shock. Without intervention, birds with prolonged post-ovulatory stasis become critically ill and may die from sepsis, organ failure, or peritonitis.

Emergency symptoms requiring immediate avian veterinary care include severe abdominal distension, complete anorexia lasting more than 24 hours, difficulty breathing, extreme weakness or collapse, and any sudden deterioration in a bird with known reproductive issues. Signs of shock including cold feet, pale mucous membranes, and unresponsiveness indicate critical illness requiring emergency intervention. Visible discharge from the vent, especially if bloody or foul-smelling, suggests serious complications. Any bird that has been showing signs of reproductive distress and suddenly becomes much worse may have experienced rupture of stasis material and requires immediate emergency care.

Initial examination of a bird with suspected post-ovulatory stasis begins with careful history-taking and observation before handling. The avian veterinarian asks about reproductive history, recent laying activity, diet, and timeline of symptom development. Physical examination is performed gently to avoid causing additional stress or potential rupture of distended tissues. Palpation of the abdomen reveals distension and may identify soft tissue masses in the reproductive tract region, distinguishing this condition from egg binding where a calcified egg would be felt. Body condition, hydration status, and overall health are assessed. The bird's posture, breathing, and level of alertness provide important information about severity.

Diagnostic tests for post-ovulatory stasis help confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of complications. Radiographs are essential, revealing the absence of a calcified egg despite reproductive activity signs and often showing soft tissue opacity in the oviductal region. The lack of a visible shell helps differentiate stasis from egg binding. Ultrasound examination provides detailed visualization of the reproductive tract, identifying retained yolk material, fluid accumulation, and the condition of oviductal tissues. Blood tests including complete blood count reveal signs of inflammation or infection. Biochemistry panel assesses calcium levels, protein status, and organ function. These tests help determine the severity of the condition and guide treatment planning.

Differential diagnosis for post-ovulatory stasis includes other reproductive conditions with similar presentations. Egg binding involves a calcified egg rather than soft stasis material and appears different on radiographs. Egg yolk peritonitis may develop from stasis but can also occur independently from internal ovulation without entering the oviduct. Salpingitis causes oviductal swelling and may coexist with stasis. Ovarian cysts or tumors can cause abdominal distension and reproductive abnormalities. Non-reproductive conditions including gastrointestinal obstruction, ascites, and abdominal masses must be considered. Accurate differentiation guides appropriate treatment selection and helps establish prognosis.

Diagnosis confirmation of post-ovulatory stasis is based on integration of clinical findings, imaging results, and laboratory data. The combination of reproductive activity signs, absence of a calcified egg on radiographs, and soft tissue opacity in the oviductal region strongly suggests stasis. Ultrasound confirmation of retained yolk material in the oviduct provides more definitive evidence. In some cases, the diagnosis is confirmed during surgical exploration when the retained material is directly visualized. Response to treatment can also support the diagnosis, as birds with stasis typically improve with appropriate therapy. Following diagnosis, the veterinarian discusses treatment options and prognosis with the owner.

Emergency treatment for post-ovulatory stasis in severely compromised birds begins with stabilization before specific interventions are attempted. Warmth is provided through incubators or heating devices, as hypothermia is common in ill birds. Fluid therapy addresses dehydration and supports blood pressure. Oxygen supplementation helps birds with respiratory compromise from air sac compression. Pain management is initiated using appropriate avian analgesics. Calcium supplementation is often administered, especially if hypocalcemia is suspected. Antibiotics are started prophylactically or therapeutically depending on evidence of infection. This stabilization period may be brief or extended depending on the bird's condition, with the goal of making the patient stable enough for further treatment.

Medical management of post-ovulatory stasis aims to stimulate normal progression of the retained material through the oviduct. Calcium supplementation continues as adequate calcium is essential for oviductal muscle function. Oxytocin or prostaglandins may be administered to stimulate uterine and oviductal contractions. Warmth and humidity support muscle function and may help soften retained material for easier passage. Gentle massage of the caudal abdomen may assist movement in some cases when performed by experienced practitioners. Medical management is most successful when stasis is recognized early before significant complications develop. Treatment is monitored through repeated examinations and imaging to assess whether material is progressing.

Surgical options for post-ovulatory stasis are indicated when medical management fails or when complications require intervention. Salpingotomy involves opening the oviduct to remove retained material while preserving the reproductive tract. This approach may be appropriate when fertility preservation is desired and the oviductal tissue appears healthy. Salpingohysterectomy, complete removal of the oviduct and often the ovary, is indicated when tissue damage is extensive, infection is present, or future reproductive problems are anticipated. Surgery is performed under general anesthesia with careful attention to the compromised patient's condition. The coelomic cavity is examined for any leaked material that must be cleaned before closure.

Supportive care during and after treatment addresses the bird's overall health needs. Nutritional support through assisted feeding ensures adequate calorie and nutrient intake during recovery. Maintaining appropriate environmental temperature supports the bird's ability to thermoregulate during illness. Hospitalization allows close monitoring and adjustment of treatment as needed. Pain management continues throughout the treatment period. Fluid therapy maintains hydration during anorexia. As the bird recovers, gradual reintroduction of normal diet and activity is encouraged. The duration of supportive care depends on the severity of the initial condition and response to treatment.

Alternative and complementary treatments for post-ovulatory stasis focus on supporting the bird's overall recovery and preventing recurrence. Physical therapy and gentle rehabilitation may help restore muscle tone and function after prolonged illness. Nutritional supplementation addresses deficiencies that may have contributed to the condition or developed during illness. Environmental modifications to reduce reproductive stimulation help prevent future episodes. Some practitioners incorporate traditional supportive measures or herbal preparations, though evidence for specific efficacy is limited. These approaches complement rather than replace conventional medical and surgical treatment.

Treatment decision factors for post-ovulatory stasis include the severity and duration of the condition, the bird's overall health and age, presence of complications, owner preferences regarding reproduction, and financial considerations. Mild, early cases may respond well to supportive care and medical management. More severe or prolonged cases often require surgical intervention. If reproductive capacity preservation is not important, salpingohysterectomy provides definitive treatment and prevents future reproductive complications. The bird's prognosis with each treatment approach should be discussed honestly. Owner ability to provide post-treatment care influences planning. Collaborative decision-making between veterinarian and owner leads to the best outcomes for individual birds.

Recovery timeline for birds treated for post-ovulatory stasis varies based on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach used. Birds that respond to medical management typically show improvement within 24 to 48 hours of initiating treatment, though complete recovery may take one to two weeks. Surgical patients require three to six weeks for incision healing and return to normal activity. Birds that experienced significant complications such as peritonitis may require longer recovery periods extending over several weeks to months. Nutritional recovery to restore depleted reserves may take additional time. The pace of recovery depends on the individual bird's resilience, the extent of tissue damage, and the quality of post-treatment care provided.

Post-treatment care requirements are significant for birds recovering from post-ovulatory stasis. Medication administration must follow veterinary instructions precisely, with antibiotics completed even after the bird appears improved. Activity restriction protects surgical incisions and conserves energy for healing. Environmental temperature should be maintained slightly warmer than usual to support the recovering bird's thermoregulation. Nutritional support through highly palatable foods encourages eating, and assisted feeding may be necessary initially. Cage setup should facilitate rest while allowing access to food and water without excessive climbing. Follow-up appointments allow the veterinarian to assess healing progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Prognosis factors for birds recovering from post-ovulatory stasis include the duration of stasis before treatment, development of complications, treatment response, and overall health status. Birds treated early before significant inflammation or infection developed generally have excellent prognosis. Those with peritonitis or sepsis face more guarded prognosis even with aggressive treatment. Surgical complications including dehiscence or ongoing infection negatively impact recovery. The bird's age and pre-existing health conditions influence healing ability. Response to initial treatment serves as an important prognostic indicator, with rapid improvement suggesting favorable outcome.

Long-term outlook for birds that recover from post-ovulatory stasis depends largely on whether underlying causes are addressed and whether the reproductive tract was preserved or removed. Birds that underwent salpingohysterectomy have no risk of recurrence and generally excellent long-term prognosis. Those treated medically with reproductive tract preservation remain at risk for future reproductive complications and require ongoing management to minimize this risk. Environmental modifications, dietary adjustments, and possibly hormonal therapy may be recommended to prevent future episodes. With appropriate long-term management, most birds enjoy good quality of life after recovering from post-ovulatory stasis. Regular veterinary monitoring helps ensure continued health and early detection of any new problems.

Environmental prevention strategies for post-ovulatory stasis focus on reducing reproductive stimulation and ensuring optimal conditions for healthy reproductive function when egg-laying does occur. Maintaining appropriate photoperiod with no more than 10 to 12 hours of light daily helps regulate reproductive hormones and reduces chronic egg-laying that depletes nutritional reserves. Removing perceived nest sites including boxes, tents, and enclosed spaces discourages breeding behavior. Avoiding warm, stable temperatures that mimic breeding season conditions helps suppress reproductive activity. Rearranging cage contents periodically disrupts territorial breeding behaviors. Limiting access to bonding stimuli including mirrors and objects that may be perceived as mates reduces hormonal stimulation.

Quarantine protocols are not directly applicable to post-ovulatory stasis prevention since this is not a contagious condition. However, careful evaluation of new birds' reproductive histories and health status helps identify individuals prone to reproductive complications. Birds with histories of chronic egg-laying or reproductive disorders require proactive management from the time of acquisition. Isolation of new birds allows assessment of reproductive behavior before introduction to permanent housing. Documentation of reproductive events for newly acquired birds helps establish patterns that guide management decisions.

Dietary prevention is crucial for avoiding post-ovulatory stasis and supporting healthy reproductive function. Adequate calcium intake is essential, with calcium supplementation recommended for reproductively active hens. Vitamin D3 supports calcium absorption and should be provided through appropriate diet or supplementation. Balanced nutrition through high-quality pelleted diets provides complete nutrients needed for reproductive health. Avoiding excessive fat and calories that stimulate continuous egg-laying helps prevent nutritional depletion. Ensuring adequate protein supports reproductive tract muscle function. Maintaining appropriate body weight through portion control and exercise supports overall reproductive health.

Health maintenance for prevention includes regular avian veterinary examinations that assess reproductive status and nutritional adequacy. Blood calcium levels can be monitored in birds with active egg-laying. Body condition assessment identifies birds at risk for reproductive complications due to obesity or poor condition. Discussion of reproductive management strategies with the veterinarian before problems arise allows proactive planning. Birds showing signs of excessive reproductive activity may benefit from preventive hormone therapy. Maintaining good husbandry practices supports the overall health that enables normal reproductive function.

Early intervention when reproductive abnormalities are noted prevents progression to stasis and other serious complications. When birds show signs of preparing to lay but fail to produce an expected egg, veterinary consultation should not be delayed. Prompt treatment of mild oviductal dysfunction may prevent development of complete stasis. Birds with previous episodes of stasis or other reproductive complications require heightened monitoring during reproductively active periods. Owners should establish emergency plans for reproductive complications and know how to access avian veterinary care after hours. Proactive management prevents the suffering and expense associated with emergency treatment of advanced reproductive disorders.

Daily management for birds with histories of post-ovulatory stasis or at risk for reproductive complications requires consistent attention to environmental and health factors. Light schedules must be maintained strictly, with 10 to 12 hours of complete darkness nightly. Daily observation notes any behavioral changes suggesting reproductive activity or illness. Food intake and body weight are monitored regularly, with weekly weigh-ins recommended. Cage inspection ensures no nest-like spaces have developed and no stimulating materials are accessible. Medication schedules for birds on hormone therapy must be maintained precisely. Fresh water and appropriate diet are provided daily. Early signs of reproductive distress are addressed promptly rather than taking a wait-and-see approach.

Home environment modifications support prevention of recurrent post-ovulatory stasis. Cage location should avoid artificial light sources that extend perceived daylight hours. Temperature should be kept moderate, avoiding constant warmth. All enclosed spaces, boxes, and nest-like areas are eliminated from the cage. Paper, fabric, and shreddable materials that might be used for nesting are kept away from the bird. Mirrors and reflective surfaces are removed. The cage environment is rearranged periodically to disrupt territorial behavior. These modifications require ongoing attention, as birds may seek out or create nest-like spaces if given the opportunity.

Quality of life for birds prone to reproductive complications can be excellent with appropriate management. Redirecting reproductive energy toward appropriate activities helps satisfy behavioral needs without triggering complications. Foraging opportunities provide mental stimulation and occupy time. Training sessions strengthen the human-bird bond through positive interaction. Flight time and exercise support muscle tone and overall health. Social interaction that avoids triggering pair-bonding behaviors maintains positive relationships. Many birds become calmer and more interactive when reproductive hormones are managed effectively. The goal is a fulfilling life that minimizes the risks associated with uncontrolled reproductive activity.

Monitoring and ongoing care for birds at risk includes regular veterinary examinations and home observation. Weight tracking identifies trends that might indicate developing problems. Behavioral observations note any return of reproductive behavior that might precede complications. Droppings are monitored for changes suggesting reproductive cycling. Any signs of abdominal distension, straining, or discomfort warrant immediate veterinary consultation. For birds on hormone therapy, regular reassessment determines whether treatment adjustments are needed. Periodic blood work assesses calcium status and overall health. Maintaining detailed records helps identify patterns and informs management decisions.

Caregiver support acknowledges the commitment required to manage birds prone to reproductive complications. Connecting with avian bird clubs and online communities provides peer support and practical advice. Understanding that management is a long-term commitment helps set realistic expectations. Recognizing successes, such as extended periods without reproductive complications, maintains motivation. Financial planning for ongoing veterinary care reduces stress associated with treatment costs. Knowing when to seek help, both for the bird and for caregiver stress, demonstrates responsible pet ownership. With dedication and appropriate support, most owners successfully manage their birds' reproductive health while enjoying positive relationships with their feathered companions.

High-risk species for post-ovulatory stasis include birds prone to chronic egg-laying and those with high reproductive output. Cockatiels are among the most commonly affected, with their tendency for persistent egg production leading to nutritional depletion and reproductive tract fatigue that predispose to stasis. Budgerigars similarly experience high rates of reproductive complications due to prolific breeding tendencies. Lovebirds, particularly peach-faced lovebirds, are notorious for persistent reproductive activity and associated disorders. Canaries and finches bred for reproduction may develop stasis related to intensive breeding demands. Any species that produces eggs continuously without appropriate rest periods faces elevated risk for post-ovulatory stasis and related complications.

Moderate-risk species include most reproductively mature female psittacines kept in pet environments. Amazon parrots, African grey parrots, and other medium to large psittacines can develop stasis though less frequently than smaller, more prolific species. Conures of various species may develop reproductive disorders under stimulating environmental conditions. Eclectus parrots have distinct reproductive physiology that may predispose to specific complications. Poicephalus species including Senegal parrots occasionally develop reproductive stasis. Ring-necked parakeets and other medium-sized psittacines fall into the moderate-risk category. Even species not typically considered reproductive problem birds can develop stasis under certain conditions.

Screening recommendations for species at risk include baseline health examinations as birds reach reproductive maturity. Annual wellness examinations should assess reproductive status and discuss any concerns about egg-laying patterns. Blood calcium levels should be evaluated in actively laying birds. Radiographs can identify developing reproductive abnormalities before clinical signs appear. Birds with histories of reproductive complications benefit from more frequent monitoring during reproductively active periods. Owners of high-risk species should establish relationships with avian veterinarians experienced in reproductive medicine and develop plans for managing reproductive activity before problems develop. Proactive prevention is far preferable to treating reproductive emergencies.

Commonly co-occurring conditions with post-ovulatory stasis reflect the broader spectrum of reproductive disorders affecting female birds. Chronic egg-laying syndrome often precedes stasis by depleting nutritional reserves and fatiguing the reproductive tract. Egg yolk peritonitis may develop as a complication when stasis material ruptures into the coelomic cavity. Salpingitis, inflammation of the oviduct, can both predispose to stasis and develop secondary to retained material. Hypocalcemia commonly accompanies stasis due to the calcium demands of egg production combined with inadequate dietary intake. Metabolic bone disease may develop in birds with prolonged reproductive activity and calcium depletion. Managing these related conditions alongside stasis treatment is essential for optimal outcomes.

Conditions with similar symptoms to post-ovulatory stasis require careful differentiation. Egg binding involves a calcified egg rather than soft yolk material and is identifiable on radiographs by the presence of a shell. Egg yolk peritonitis from internal ovulation may present similarly but involves yolk material free in the coelomic cavity rather than retained in the oviduct. Ovarian cysts or tumors can cause abdominal distension and reproductive abnormalities. Oviductal neoplasia may present with similar signs. Non-reproductive conditions including gastrointestinal obstruction, liver enlargement, and ascites can cause abdominal distension. Accurate diagnosis through physical examination, imaging, and laboratory testing ensures appropriate treatment is provided.

Potential complications of untreated or improperly managed post-ovulatory stasis can be severe. Rupture of distended oviductal tissue releases yolk material into the coelomic cavity, causing peritonitis. Bacterial infection of retained material leads to septicemia with potential for multiorgan failure. Chronic inflammation causes adhesions and permanent damage to reproductive tract structures. Nutritional depletion progresses as the bird stops eating and metabolic demands continue. Recognizing and treating post-ovulatory stasis promptly prevents these complications. When complications do develop, intensive medical and often surgical intervention is required. Prevention through appropriate husbandry and early intervention remains the best approach to avoiding the serious consequences of advanced post-ovulatory stasis.