Rickets is a disease of severe Vit D deficiency in humans (causes severe bone deformities like bowing of the legs). Could birds get this too?? They have very different bone structure than we do, but I imagine they still have Ca++ rich bones and need Vit D for Ca++ absorption and proper bone formation and regeneration.
Also – Vit D is being linked to lots of immune-mediated functions in humans. Every single cell in the body has a Vit D receptor, indicating it is incredibly important for proper body function. We have read about other birds that make Vit D from their feathers (or animals from their fir) and then preening or licking it off. Do vultures do this as well?? I have never seen them preening. You?
