My lovebird's tail bobs, clicks, breathes heavy. Is it a health issue?

As with many common signs of illness in birds, prolonged, repetitive bobbing of the tail can indicate a respiratory infection. The key is "prolonged" and "repetitive". If a bird is having trouble breathing, the tail muscles work harder, causing the tail to bob up and down. So, if you are questioning it, then it is probably too much and your bird should see a vet.

Thanks for reaching out about Budgie. This is often a sign of serious respiratory disease. The tail is bobbing to assist in inspiration, like a billows. A veterinary visit is needed as soon as possible. Possibilities include a bacterial or fungal infection, enlarged organ (liver, spleen), or pain. Good luck.

The tail bobbing, opening and closing mouth may be indications of respiratory difficulties. This may bebdut ot infection (bacterial, fungal or parasites) or trauma. The fluffed feathers, when taken with other symptoms may further point to potential illness. Ideally, she should be physically examined by your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Birds are quite adept at concealing illness or injury so by the time they start to show symptoms, they may be very sick.

If Sawyer is still showing problems even with at home treatment, it's best to bring her into your local vet for a complete exam. They can check for infection (which could be causing her symptoms if she's improving with medication), or other underlying issues through an exam and some basic bloodwork especially since the symptoms you mentioned are very vague and can be a part of any number of issues. Keeping her warm and in a hospital cage that is separated from your other birds so they can't pick on her (and no illness can be spread) is also a good idea if she hasn't been already (you didn't specify either way).

Thanks for reaching out about Flint. Typically stress can cause rapid breathing but does not result in tail bobbing. Tail bobbing is due to difficulty breathing as in a large abdominal organ (liver, spleen), abdominal fluid or other problem. If continues, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Tail bobbing isn't really a symptom in itself, unless you are seeing other signs such as difficulty breathing, sleeping all the time, not eating/drinking. It could be you are just startling your birds, so they are hunching down when you are near, or they are just active and moving about if they otherwise seem healthy. Offering a treat when you come by to visit can help them bond with you. If you do start seeing any signs of illness, or respiratory distress (heavy breathing, panting, etc) then scheduling a vet visit to rule out any more serious issue is best.

Pronounced tail bobbing coupled with a bit of lethargy may indicate respiratory distress or illness. Ideally, Pepper should be physically examined by your veterinarian or an experienced avian vet to diagnose and treat infection or injury. By the time birds begin to show any symptoms, they can be quite ill. In the meantime, keep him warm and as stress free as possible until he sees the doctor. Monitor for additional symptoms such as loose droppings or loss of appetite.