|Let's Celebrate Pet Birds!|
T.J. Lafeber D.V.M.
Conserving body heat is the most important function of feathers. Whenever the body begins to chill, the feathers automatically respond by ruffling. The dead air space between the feathers increases according to the need. The greater the feathers thickness the better the insulation.
Birds will normally ruffle their feathers only when resting. Otherwise, ruffled feathers mean that something is wrong. Chilling may be caused by a cold environment or might come from within when the body doesn't manufacture sufficient heat because of sickness, loss of appetite or shortage of food. Birds with ruffled feathers should see their veterinarian immediately.