Three of last year's bantam hatchlings were injured late in the fall. One is progressing but still can't stand, one seems to have retained a permanent injury, the third recovered fully but is tiny compared to her hatchmates outside. All are cheerful, with good appetites and determination to learn whatever I ask them to try. They respond well to the PT and bandaging, and have taught me a great deal; most recently how to bathe them in a way that allows them to feel safe and enjoy the warmth and freedom of movement. They also enjoyed the low setting of the hairdryer used to dry those wet feathers!
The little one is about the size and color of a big snowball; perfectly proportioned, intelligent, and full of personality. She has always needed- been driven to seek- lots of cuddling and conversation. She keeps her two bigger sisters (D'Anvers Millefleur bantams) company and annoys them just enough to keep them mobile and healthy.
We take all three out to visit the outside flock so they remember one another; if we'd left them in the flock they'd have been pecked to death because of the flock's fear of anything they don't understand.
Hope that answers that question! Now back to work outside.