Robert Stroud, also known as the "Bird Man of Alcatraz,” was a convicted murderer who became a renowned ornithologist while serving time in prison. Stroud used hydrogen peroxide and sodium perborate to treat diseases in birds, which he documented in his book "Diseases of Birds."
So, how and why did Stroud use hydrogen peroxide and sodium perborate to treat birds? Both hydrogen peroxide and sodium perborate are powerful disinfectants that can help to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. Stroud would use these substances to clean the cages and equipment used to house and care for the birds, as well as to treat various bird diseases.
For example, Stroud used hydrogen peroxide to treat a condition known as "bumblefoot" in birds, which is caused by a bacterial infection. He would soak the bird's feet in a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water to help kill the bacteria and promote healing.
Similarly, Stroud used sodium perborate to treat a condition known as "red mite" in birds, which is caused by a parasitic mite that feeds on the bird's blood. He would dust the birds with sodium perborate powder to kill the mites and prevent further infestation.
Overall, Stroud's use of hydrogen peroxide and sodium perborate in bird care was innovative and effective. By using these powerful disinfectants, he was able to treat various bird diseases and promote overall bird health. Today, these substances are still used by many bird enthusiasts and caretakers.
References:
Stroud, Robert. Diseases of Birds. Los Angeles: Naturegraph Publishers, 1963.
"The Bird Man of Alcatraz: Robert Stroud and His Birds." National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/alca/learn/historyculture/robert-stroud.htm
"Bumblefoot in Birds." PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/bird/conditions/skin/c_bd_pododermatitis
"Red Mites in Poultry: How to Identify and Control Them." The Poultry Site. https://thepoultrysite.com/articles/red-mites-in-poultry-how-to-identify-and-control-them
