This isn't an ugly bird ok, so just an educational post for this fella. He's sick. We have a horrible virus here in Australia which attacks all the birds in the parrot family.
It makes there beaks over grow and they lose there feathers, there beaks also break off at the bone leading to an infection. He didn't survive through winter, i hope he just fell asleep one night.
He was so friendly and hand feedable, the healthy birds shunned him. Even the magpies knew he was sick and harassed him/chased him away.
It's heart breaking that mother nature is so cruel. This is why i keep a very tidy and clean yard!
He was beautiful!
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Copy and paste,
The most common virus affecting cockatoos, and indeed many other bird species, is the Beak and Feather Disease Virus (BFDV), which causes Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD). This highly contagious virus attacks the fast-growing cells of the beak, feathers, and claws, leading to various symptoms and ultimately, often death.
Here's a more detailed look at PBFD:
1. What it is: PBFD is a viral disease caused by the BFDV, a circovirus. It is a major threat to parrots, cockatoos, and lorikeets (psittacine birds), but different strains can also affect other bird species.
2. How it spreads: The virus can be transmitted through various means, including:
- Direct contact: Through saliva, feces, or feathers of infected birds.
- Indirect contact: Through contaminated cages, feeding bowls, nesting boxes, or even the air.
- Environmental persistence: The virus can survive in the environment for extended periods, such as in nest hollows or feed stations.
3. Symptoms: Symptoms can vary, but often include:
- Feather loss and damage: Feathers may be missing, broken, or deformed.
- Beak and claw problems: Beaks may be overgrown, brittle, or malformed, and claws may be overgrown or brittle.
- General signs: Diarrhea, weight loss, anorexia, depression, and lethargy.
4. Impact on cockatoos: PBFD can be particularly devastating for cockatoos, especially young ones, as it suppresses their immune systems, making them vulnerable to secondary infections.
5. Treatment and Prevention:
- No cure: There is currently no effective cure or treatment for PBFD.
- Prevention: Hygiene is crucial. This includes cleaning cages, dishes, and nesting boxes regularly, avoiding contact with infected birds, and practicing good sanitation in areas where birds are kept.
- Supportive care: Pet parents can help infected birds live longer by providing good nutrition, preventing secondary infections, and offering a comfortable environment.
... what a handsome head, he's not ugly. Brilliant pic there Mr! He's not to be eating bunnys though
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... my bad
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, only needs washed 3 odd times a week. I didn't know about the bacteria thing till i googled it after your post
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