I have a four-year-old Hahn's macaw. We live on the coast and have had to evacuate a few times due to hurricane threats. My macaw seems to get motion sickness. He throws up and his body temperature rises. I try to keep him as calm as possible, with access to water, food treats and his favorite toys. Is this nerves or motion sickness? My African grey travels just fine.

-- Karen Welch, Charleston, S.C.

BIRDS CAN and do become motion sick, just like people do. And like people, they can become nauseated and vomit as a result. Since we have no choice but to pack up family and pets and leave when a hurricane or another serious danger threatens our homes, all we can do to make the experience easier for a car-sick bird is to try to acclimate him beforehand. This will take a bit of effort, but here's what you should do to get him used to the vibration of the engine and the movement of the automobile: Several times a day, take your bird out to the car in his cage and place him on the seat for a few minutes. Gradually lengthen the time. Once he seems comfortable sitting in the car with the engine off, start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. If he takes this well, drive him a short distance. Repeat several times a day, gradually extending the distance driven. It may take some time, but most animals eventually adjust to car rides.

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