Common Signs:
- 1. Happy Bird
- Chirping, singing, or whistling: Regular, melodic sounds show contentment.
- Relaxed posture: Perched calmly, sometimes fluffing feathers up in a normal, perky way.
- Gentle preening: Either preening themselves or you.
- Head bobbing: Especially during play or when asking for attention.
- Soft wing flapping or playful hops: Gentle movements, not frantic.
- 2. Angry or Annoyed Bird
- Fluffed-up body feathers (“hackling”), crouched stance: Head down, body low, tail flared.
- Pupil dilation (“eye pinning”): Eyes quickly expand and contract, often paired with tense body language.
- Strutting walk, hissing, or growling: May vocalize in a deeper tone.
- Beak open, ready to bite: Warning to keep your distance.
- Wing flipping: Sharp, deliberate flaps to show agitation.
- 3. Sad, Stressed, or Depressed Bird
- Lethargy: Sitting very still or at the bottom of the cage for long periods.
- Unusual quietness: Less vocal than usual, subdued chirping or whispering.
- Feather picking or self-plucking: Repetitive picking at feathers—a major warning sign.
- Loss of appetite: Not interested in food or treats.
- Hiding or avoiding people: May retreat to a corner or behind toys to avoid attention.
- 4. Sick or Unwell Bird
- Persistent feather fluffing: Feathers remain puffed for long stretches, even when warm and calm.
- Sitting low or hunched: Bird seems “puffed out” and lethargic.
- Drooping wings or tail: Not actively engaging with surroundings.
- Labored or open-mouth breathing: Breathing appears strained.
- Discharge from eyes or nostrils, dirty vent, weight loss: Seek a vet urgently.
- 5. Excited Bird
- Burst of vocalizations: Sudden, louder chirps, squawks, or whistles.
- Wildcard behaviors: Tail wagging rapidly side-to-side, hopping, flying in place.
- Eye pinning: Rapid pupil dilation and narrowing from excitement.
- Wing flapping and head bobbing: Some birds dance, flap, or flash their crests if they have them.
