Active and healthy

A healthy bird is busy and active most of the day. It will jump and fly between branches in lively movements.

The feather coat should be smooth, the beak and feet should be clean and dry, and the eyes should be bright and vivid. Males will sing regularly. A healthy bird drinks and eats several times a day and loves to play in a clean bird bath. Birds preen regularly.

Many birds have a certain place to sleep where they sleep with one leg tucked up to its abdomen and the feathers raised. The beak is hidden between shoulder and head under the wing.

Diseases

It is important and easy to prevent diseases through good hygiene. Always make sure to provide fresh water and food and to clean the cage or aviary regularly.
 
A sick bird will often sit with its tail downwards and have a ruffled feather coat. A bird which does not move has lost its appetite and will often sit in the bottom of the cage.

You should contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible in order for the vet to run a check up on the bird. Note that a sick bird will need peace and quiet and should be installed in a separate cage.