JAMES HARRIS, DVM
Beak-to-mouth contact isn't safe for birds
 I have a 2 1/2-month-old Quaker that is very enthusiastic about "preening" the side of my face when he's seated on my shoulder. He will strain and stretch to reach my mouth as well. I was told that human saliva is toxic to a parrot. Is this true?
--Jo Anne, mybelovedsub@aol.com
 Human saliva is not in itself toxic, of course. And your bird cannot catch a human cold from you. However, all mammalian saliva carries bacteria that could make your bird sick with infections of the sinuses, throat, lungs, air sacs, gastro-intestinal tract or internal organs.
Therefore, never let your bird make contact with your mouth--even for a quick "peck"--and do not bite off food for your bird.
James Harris, DVM is owner and medical director of the Mayfair Veterinary Clinic in Sandy Bay, Tasmania, Australia. He founded Montclair Veterinary Hospital in Oakland, Calif., and has served as medical director and chairman of the board for the International Bird Rescue Research Center in Berkeley. Dr. Harris' numerous professional honors include California and National Bustad Companion Animal DVM Awards.
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