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Are black or grey stains on my bird's nostrils a health problem?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Lovebird | Male | 9 months and 25 days old

My birds have black stains around their nostrils. At times it is dark but at other times it is lighter but you can still see a color difference (greyish) but no longer black. Is this normal, because I know they sneeze and my mom forgets to tell me when she is cooking as we like to use garlic and spice. I will remember to take them upstairs now but is their anything else that may be a possible problem that needs attention? Hope to hear from you soon :))

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on December 15th, 2018

Thanks for reaching out about Pekoe and Rico, and including photos. The staining around the nostrils (not noticed on the photos) could be the result of inhalation of dust, smoke or other particulate matter during cooking or other times. Bird's respiratory systems are very sensitive and inhalation of cooking smoke or other products can be potentially acutely fatal. Removing birds from the vicinity when cooking is important, especially if cooking with Teflon. Good luck.

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