written by: dr. jacquie jacob, university of kentucky
in order to identify signs of disease early, it is important to be familiar with the characteristics of a healthy bird. a healthy bird displays the following traits:
- erect stance with head and tail elevated
- bright red comb and wattles (except for those breeds with blue combs, such as the silkie)
- filled-out face parts
- bright and alert eyes
- clean nostrils
- smooth, neat, clean feathers
- filled-out legs
- joints that are smooth and cool to the touch
- weight that is typical for the type and age of the bird
- powerful movements when struggling
- scales on the legs and feet that are clean and waxy in appearance
- color of the skin that is characteristics of the breed and strain of bird, as well as the age and state of production
in addition, a healthy bird eats and drinks frequently and displays no signs of respiratory distress.