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Understanding Bird Body Language

BST TeamFeb 28, 2026
body-languagebehaviourbonding

Decoding Your Bird Signals

Happy and Content

  • Relaxed, slightly fluffed feathers
  • Beak grinding at rest
  • Standing on one foot
  • Regular preening
  • Singing and chattering
  • Scared or Stressed

  • Feathers held tight against body
  • Wide eyes with dilating pupils
  • Leaning away from perceived threat
  • Loud alarm calls
  • Wanting Attention

  • Head bobbing
  • Wing flapping
  • Hanging upside down
  • Health Warning Signs

  • Fluffed up for extended periods
  • Sitting on cage floor
  • Discharge from eyes or nostrils
  • Loss of appetite
  • Ready to welcome a feathered friend?

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