Hey Guys,

Hoping you can give me some feedback, I've noticed that for the last 2 days Russell has been flicking his head. It's not a shake type motion, but like he's trying to flick something off of his head type motion. Does this sound like a symptom to any type of infection. I am looking for an animal emergency clinic closer to me than the one I know of but I was hoping could get some feedback before I took him.

Thanks..... April

__________________

I have a cockatiel that does that but It's due to a brain injury in his former home...

__________________

Sounds like a symptom of having something on his head.

Is he spitting up at all, coughing, or any unusual sounds?

When does he do it? While grooming, or ...

No unusual sounds, spitting. He seems to be doing it all the time, doesn't matter what he's doing, about every 30 seconds. Nothing is on his head but that is what the motion looks like, looks like he trying to shake something off but nothings there. AD does this sound worriesome?

Thanks..... April

__________________

If it's still happening that often it may be better to be safe than sorry. A quick trip to the vet is never a waste.

Are you able to take a short video of it to post?

Wish I was able to assist you, unfortunately not. Mishka my AG only flicks her head while preening. I agree with AD, a trip to the vet would be the best option.
Good luck
Please keep us posted

__________________

According to a book I have called For the Love of Greys head twitching in greys is to be expected. If the ears are clean and dry and clear of feathers the twitching will most likely be normal.

AD: We are trying to make arrangements to get to the aniimal hospital, most likely will be later this afternoon. I can try and take a short video but he's camera shy and clams up whenever it's around.

SB: Yeah I read that also, I also read that this can occur in Greys as they tend to be calcium deficient and when that happens they hear things and start flicking their heads. I don't think that is the case with Russell, his diet consists of alot of calcium enriched foods. And this just started happening, he never used to do this which is why I'm concerned.

I'll try and post a video before I leave and I'll keep you updated. My instincts tell me something is wrong with him so as AD said better to be safe than sorry.

__________________

I hope he's ok and you get it figured out. I'd be worried too.

__________________
A parrot is more than just color and a pretty face. They are our closest friends.
Holly Misty

From experience with the CAG that lives in my house, its perfectly normal. She often does it when there is a sound (or when you say something) she doesn't like!

__________________