ABSTRACT
The avian exam should start without physically handling the animal. The environment and initial observations of the bird will provide critical information about its health status and maximize the benefit of the physical exam. In addition, restraint times should be minimized because birds are easily stressed, and just the stress of handling can cause a very ill bird to die. In severely sick birds, especially in respiratory distress, the animal may benefit more from a quiet, dark, and oxygen-enriched environment prior to handling. However, a brief but thorough physical exam is warranted for the majority of animals even when ill. The veterinarian should watch restrained animals carefully for signs of excessive stress. Respiratory rate will increase in all restrained birds, but closing of the eyes and/or becoming less responsive warrant releasing the animal back into the cage. Body weight measured with a gram scale should be obtained as part of the physical exam whenever possible. Body temperature is not a routine part of a physical exam as it normally increases significantly with handling (Greenacre and Lusby, 2004). Details pertaining to restraint for specific species are described in Chapter 5: Experimental Methodology. A fecal Gram stain (described later) can be a useful diagnostic tool for birds, and should be considered for sick birds where the cause of illness is not immediately evident.
