Is my parrot's warm body temperature normal or a sign of illness?

A birds body temperature is higher than human body temperature, about 41C compared to our 37C. This increase translates to warmer skin temperature as well. The warm feet is normal and no cause for concern as long as there is no lethargy, decreased appetite, loose droppings, etc.

Thanks for adding in a photo! From the photo, it looks like Meenu might be molting! This is normal in all birds, and happens when they replace their old feathers with new ones. Baby birds will also have a molt as they reach adulthood, losing their soft downy feathers (the wispy ones in the picture) and replacing them with their adult feathers. It is very normal for colors to change somewhat during a molt as brighter colors come in, and the feathers may fade some with time as well. As long as Meenu is otherwise healthy and happy, it isn't anything to be worried about. To see if your bird is growing in new feathers you can look for pin feathers (small like needle-like things poking out of the skin). Making sure Meenu is on a healthy balanced diet can help make sure she has a good molt and grows in healthy new feathers.

That could be not normal as this puffed up - feathers position can be caused by general illness that can cause high temperature. Any infection can cause that for example. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

As long as she is eating, drinking and defecating normally then there is likely no cause for concern. Symptoms of illness or injury include lethargy, loss of appetite, loose droppings or a fluffed up appearance.

That is how cockatiels normally sleep. They will also rest on one leg. There is no cause for concern at this positioning. A bird's body temperature is a bit higher than human body temp thus they will always feel warm to us. Monitor for lethargy, sitting with a wide stance and feathers fluffed out, decreased appetite or very loose droppings. These are all symptoms of illness.

Thanks for reaching out about Peach. Shaking can be from many reasons. Being too cold is one, most parrots are comfortable in 80-85 degree weather. They shiver to create heat. Covering the cage will not generate any additional heat, so a heat lamp should be provided. Shaking can also result from being sick. A veterinary visit is needed to arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Sky and including photos. Birds are typically fluffed when cold or ill. A veterinary visit is recommended, sooner than later. Providing heat support can give some aid but is not a cure for illness. As a new bird, moving to a new home can be stressful for a young animal, and suppressing the immune system, allowing subclinical infections to manifest. Good luck.