James Harris, DVM
A foul-smelling bird is probably sick
 I have a 3-year-old green-cheek conure who recently began emitting a dingy, musty odor. She bathes daily and has never smelled before. Unlike the sweet, fruity smell of Amazons or pionus, our green-cheek's smell is anything but pleasant! I breed this species as well, and my breeders do not smell like this. Could something be wrong with her?
-- Chanda, Yreka, Calif.
Our Senegals droppings have taken on an odor that I don't recall them having before. Can you tell me if there may be a problem and what it might be?
-- Janice, Camarillo, Calif.
 Many species of parrots have rather pleasant musty odors. In fact, these birds are often referred to as scented. Examples include mealy and lilac-crown Amazons. The odor is produced by the skin and seems to be strongest around the head. Some birds have a sweet fruity breath because of their diet.
However, not all odors are good ones, as you've noticed, and may indicate a problem. Birds that smell yeasty or have foul-smelling droppings should see an avian veterinarian right away. They usually have some type of infection. Smelly droppings can be a symptom of a bacterial infection. Other smells might mean an ear or yeast infection.
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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