Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My parrot sleeps with its head down. Is this normal or a concern?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male

Hello i just saw my african grey parrot sleeping with it's head leaning downwards , what does this indicate ?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on June 25th, 2017

It could be that is just how your parrot fell asleep, which can be normal. If he is showing any signs of illness while awake, such as a head tilt then, refusal to eat, listless behavior, etc, then this is cause for concern and should be checked out by a vet.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on March 7th, 2020
These are very vague symptoms with multiple causes. If possible, raise room temperature a few degrees to see if that helps. If not, Pablo will need to be physically examined by your veterinarian or an experienced avian vet to diagnose and treat any underlying causes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 1st, 2017
It can be normal for a bird to change its preferred position of sleeping so I would not be too worried about it, as long as he is still sleeping the same amount and sleeping soundly. However, if you are concerned that he is sick for any other reason, like he is not as active or not eating as well, then I would recommend having him checked out by your vet.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Training & Behavior

My bird sleeps with its head in the perch. Should I be worried?

This is not a typical resting position for birds, though it may be "normal" for Alfred. Monitor for lethargy, loss of appetite or loose droppings. If the behavior persists or if he develops any of these symptoms, then he should be physically examined by your veterinarian or an experienced avian veterinarian.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My pet bird is lethargic and sleeping with its head down. Is it sick?

Hi! Sleeping with head bent down or under a wing can be normal. However, if Prince is more lethargic and sleeping more than normal, I would agree that he could be sick with an infection or some other illness. therefore, I would recommend you take him to see a veterinarian since birds can get seriously ill very fast. Your vet will be able to do an exam and recommend any tests or treatments that are necessary. Good luck!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

My budgie sleeps strangely. Is this normal or should I see a vet?

Hi, if Sky is otherwise doing well, eating and defecating normally, active and alert, then I wouldn’t be concerned. Some birds sleep with their head tucked under a wing or in some other similar position. Sky’s neck is bent more in the pictures than what is typical for a parakeet, but it could just be normal for him. However, if you notice any changes or if his neck doesn’t straighten out and remains bent when not sleeping, then this would definitely not be normal and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

Why is my Quaker parrot sleeping with its leg behind its head?

A healthy happy and secure bird will usually sleep with one foot tucked up to his abdomen and his head turned around and tucked into his back feathers. I am not really able to imagine a bird with his leg and foot behind his head. It would be very helpful if you could upload a photo of your bird sleeping like this. If your bird is otherwise eating, drinking, has normal droppings and is preening himself properly, there should be no reason to worry.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

Why is my new baby budgie's head always tilted down? Is he sick?

If he's like that even while eating, drinking, or being active (not sleeping) and never has his head in a normal position, it wouldn't hurt to have him examined by your vet. It's possible there could be an underlying issue such as a nutritional problem or even a neuromuscular issue that would benefit from being checked out.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Food & Nutrition

My parrot isn't sleeping with one leg up. Is this normal or a problem?

It is normal for birds to sleep or rest with one leg up. They don't do this all the time though. If she is behaving normally otherwise, she is probably fine. Monitor for decreased appetite or activity, loose droppings or sitting at the bottom of the cage.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why does my baby parrot make strange sounds when sleeping? Is he hurt?

It's possible your parrot may just be making chirpy/soothing sounds as a way to relax as he settles down to sleep, which can be normal. However if you suspect an internal injury from a fall, see signs of illness, or he is otherwise not acting normally it is best to seek veterinary care and a complete exam.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share