What is a primary indicator of FAS in avian patients?

Fluffed feathers are an important primary indicator of Fear and Anxiety Stress (FAS) in avian patients. When birds are feeling stressed or fearful, they often exhibit changes in their plumage, which can include fluffing their feathers. This behavior is a physiological response where birds puff up their feathers, making themselves appear larger, which can be a sign of distress or an attempt to regulate their body temperature. In a clinical setting, noticing fluffed feathers can alert the veterinary team that the bird is uncomfortable or frightened, prompting them to take steps to minimize the patient's stress and create a more calming environment.

In contrast, bright coloration is typically a sign of good health and vitality, while cautious exploration indicates a level of wariness that could stem from various factors, including stress. Vocalization can vary widely among species and may reflect a range of emotions, not solely related to stress. While these behaviors can provide valuable information about a bird's emotional state, they do not serve as specific indicators of FAS like fluffed feathers do.