Avian Gastric Yeast Formerly Megabacteria Part I: Description

Megabacteria is a large gram positive rod shaped organism that causes severe debilitating disease in numerous species of psittacines and passerines in captivity and in the wild. (Note the large rod-shaped organisms in the photo.) Megabacteriosis or Avian Gastric Yeast is most common in budgies. Cases have also been reported in parrotlets, lovebirds, King parrots, … Read more

Toe Tapping: From The Combined Perspectives Of An Eclectus Owner And An Avian Veterinarian

“Toe tapping” is the common name given to a condition characterized by repetitive muscular extending and contracting of the toes of a bird. In most circumstances, this condition is seen in the Eclectus parrot (Eclectus roratus), and has been observed by many pet bird owners and breeders for over a dozen years. “Toe Tapping” is … Read more

Edible Toys

Most of us know that parrots need toys to keep them entertained, safe from boredom and to help keep their beaks trimmed. But how many of us have considered using edible toys?Edible toys are a good way to teach our birds to eat new foods, are a good way to present large pieces of food, … Read more

Bathing Birds: Why, When And How

One of the most important things in maintaining our bird’s health is bathing. Bathing is natural to birds. It helps them in maintaining the quality of their feathers, keeping clean, removing dust, dander, loose feathers and debris from new feathers, moistening the skin, maintaining the insulation properties of their feathers and much more. Breeding birds … Read more