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Is my bird's tail bobbing normal? When should I be concerned?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Cockatiel | Male

How much tail bobbing is normal?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 17th, 2019

As with many common signs of illness in birds, prolonged, repetitive bobbing of the tail can indicate a respiratory infection. The key is "prolonged" and "repetitive". If a bird is having trouble breathing, the tail muscles work harder, causing the tail to bob up and down. So, if you are questioning it, then it is probably too much and your bird should see a vet.

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