(This physical factors section is currently used in WILDPro predominantly to link different data types and demonstrate inter-relationships. It does not contain detailed information on the physical factor itself.)

• In the wild, most animals do not closely contact their own wastes.
• Dirty, unhygienic conditions  increase contact between the animals and potentially pathogenic microorganism and infectious stages of macro-parasites.
• On a purely physical level, there may effects such as contamination with droppings/excreta  affecting feather structure (and therefore waterproofing), and skin, and material from excreta becoming trapped underneath leg rings.
• Mammalian urine can cause severe damage to the skin if in prolonged contact (Urine scald).

• Bumblefoot (Pododermatitis, Chronic arthritis-synovitis, Purulent synovitis)