https://www.chewy.com/education/bird/general/all-about-bird-nares
*Not sure where to start? The Bird General Education Hub offers foundational advice for bird care across a variety of species. From cage setup and enrichment to grooming, nutrition, and common health concerns, this hub covers best practices to help your feathered friend thrive.
Bird nares are essentially the nostrils of birds, located on the sides of their beaks, and serve as the entry points for breathing.
In some species, like certain parrots, these nares may be hidden under feathers, making them harder to spot.
Just like human nostrils, bird nares filter the air they breathe, but since pet birds often live indoors, they are more exposed to dust, dirt, and debris, which can lead to several common health issues.
These include bacterial or fungal infections often caused by dirty air filters or poor ventilation, debris getting stuck in their nostrils, mites (especially in budgies), and problems related to low humidity, which can make tropical birds more vulnerable to respiratory infections during dry winters.
To keep your bird’s nares healthy, regular cage cleaning is essential since dirty perches and cages can lead to infections from contaminated nails.
Letting your bird bathe, either by spraying them with warm water or providing a bird bath, helps keep their nostrils clear and their feathers clean.
Showering with your tropical bird can also benefit them by exposing them to steam that helps clear their nasal passages.
If you notice any signs of infection, such as nasal discharge or crustiness, it is very important to consult an avian vet who can provide proper treatment and guide you on improving your bird’s environment and diet.
Chewy editorial team is here to help you better understand what bird nares are and how to keep them clean and healthy, so you and your feathered friend can enjoy many happy, healthy moments together.
