NO!

BIRDS ARE MASTERS AT HIDING THEIR SIGNS OF SICKNESS.

LOOKING GOOD IN THE WILD - IT'S A MATTER OF SURVIVAL

Consider this - If you were a little bird in a whole flock of birds, and if you looked sickly, what do you think would happen to you? Right, the flock would likely drive you off or kill you.

Now, under these conditions would smart birds ever look sick? No, they would hide any signs of sickness till they could no longer do it - and by that time they probably would be seriously sick or dying.

This is what happens in the wild, and is the reason why birds in captivity also cover up signs of sickness. They believe they're doing it for their own welfare.

Bird owners must be alert to detect any signs of sickness. Otherwise, the problem may become too severe before treatment is started.

Signs of Sickness in Pet Birds

Appetite - When birds develop sickness, they become nervous, defensive, and fearful. In turn, their appetite and attitude toward food is affected. Understanding this, bird owners can detect important, early signs that something is wrong by paying close attention to their birds at mealtime!

Droppings - Change in the character of the droppings or a decrease in the number or volume.

Activity - Change in activity - the bird becomes less active, talks less, sings less and neglects beak and toenail care.

Mood - Change in attitude, decreased friendliness, increased "grouchiness".

General Appearance - Change in the birds appearance or posture. Seriously sick birds generally ruffle their feathers, begin closing their eyes in a sleepy fashion and will sit low on the perch (droopy).

Breathing - Any noticeable breathing while resting or heavy breathing after exertion, a change in character of the voice or any unusual respiratory sounds - sneeze, wheeze, or click.

Lumps - Any enlargement - even fat is abnormal in birds.

Lesions - Unusual crustiness, discoloration or inflammation of the face, beak, feet, or legs.

Bird owners will want to be watchful of their bird's health.

Annual physical examinations are a good investment.

Every new bird needs a complete physical. It's one of the most important examinations of his/her life.

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