Choking Hazard?

[Luettgs]

My BFA, Disney, often times seems like she's choking on something. He eyes will widen, her beak will open, and she moves her head back and fourth. After this is over she looks like she's chewing on whatever she throws up and then swallows it again. Typically, when she plays with her toys she doesn't eat anything, I'm guessing she understands it's not food. Even though she's fine after, it will happen again a few minutes later. I was just wondering if this is natural or something I should be concerned about.

 

[Scott]

What you describe seems to be "crop extension" or stretching, a natural habit. Can you video a segment and post? How long is the process, any signs of discomfort or discharge from the beak?

 

[ChristaNL]

So regurgitating or really out of breath?


Regurgitating is nothing special- lots of birds to it ( look it up in youtube and see if it matches you bird?)


If she really is choking/ gasping for breath you should have been at the vets right now of course

 

[EllenD]

It sounds like he's adjusting his crop...they do sometimes bring-up some food from their crops when they do this, sometimes not...it actually does look a bit like they're regurgitating, but no hormonal behavior, sounds, etc. occurs prior to adjusting their crops, and also the head movement/neck stretching isn't the same. It's completely normal, nothing to worry about if that's what it is...

I agree, posting a video of him doing it would be really helpful...

 

[GaleriaGila]

A good avian vet is great to have in the wings, so to speak.
http://www.aav.org/search/custom.asp?id=1803
Regular vets often have little experience with birds, although some are very dedicated and talented.