Toe deformities are also common (not unusual, anyhow) among captive-bred birds due to the parents biting them in the nest. It makes no sense, but it happens.

I don't know either way about the calcium theory, but I'll try to remember to ask a vet about it the next time I get a chance.

Nate Waddoups
Redmond WA USA

I have seen bad toes in Macaws, to lovebirds. I go to a lot of birdshows/fairs. where you see most of the cast offs.

I have seen this in African Greys at petstores. This is because petstores don't give the right calcium or nutrients needed. You should by it and nurse it back to health. African Greys are wonderful partners as birds.

It does raise questions about the diet the bird has been given by the breeder.

I had beginners luck in that the breeder my Buddy came from was good.

If/when I get a 2nd bird, I'll be more careful about selecting the breeder - not only is toe deformity (calcium deficiency) a concern but peanut allergies that run in families.

I've heard of a family of TAG and CAG in my area that appear to have this allergy such that some of the birds pluck when fed anything with peanuts.
I guess it's no different than some dog breeds - I remember at one time the more popular breeds suffered from in-breeding leading to an increase in genetic problems.