Making Distinctions in the Physical Examination

In the practice of avian medicine there is a decisive difference between the diagnosis and treatment of obvious problems and the ability to detect, identify and correct subtle abnormalities. By carefully and systematically evaluating the patient and its environment, subtle abnormalities become increasingly obvious. Avian species attempt to hide signs of disease as a survival adaptation. Individuals that appear sick or injured are easy prey for predators and may also be segregated or attacked by the flock. Birds are less capable of successfully hiding signs of disease from clinicians that have become skilled and acute in their observations.