Animal care - Qp4

Explanation
The most popular birds are canaries, tiny finches, and budgerigars. These birds are commonly kept as pets and are known for their vibrant colors, melodious songs, and playful nature. Canaries are known for their beautiful singing abilities, while tiny finches, such as zebra finches, are popular due to their small size and charming appearance. Budgerigars, also known as budgies or parakeets, are highly sociable and intelligent birds that make great companions. Guinea fowls, on the other hand, are not as commonly kept as pets and are usually raised for their meat or eggs.

Explanation
After the first moult, which usually occurs at 12 months of age, it is difficult to determine age. This suggests that the process of moulting, which involves shedding feathers and growing new ones, is a significant milestone in determining the age of an organism. Once an individual has undergone this first moult at 12 months, it becomes challenging to accurately estimate their age based on external factors such as feathers.

Explanation
Birds do not require vaccinations like dogs or cats. Unlike mammals, birds have a different immune system and are less susceptible to many diseases that affect other animals. However, it is important to provide birds with a clean and hygienic environment to prevent the spread of diseases. Regular veterinary check-ups are also recommended to ensure the overall health and well-being of pet birds.

Explanation
Small aviaries are not usually 50 cm x 50 cm x 30 cm. The given dimensions are not a standard size for small aviaries. The size of a small aviary can vary depending on the specific needs of the birds and the space available. Therefore, the statement is false.

Explanation
Small birds have delicate bodies and are more vulnerable to shock compared to larger animals. Their small size and fragile bones make them susceptible to injury or death from even minor mishandling or squeezing. The statement suggests that any rough handling or squeezing can lead to shock in small birds within seconds, which is why the answer is true.

Explanation
The typical signs of an ill bird include drowsiness, feathers ruffled, and shivering. Drowsiness is a common sign of illness in birds as they may become lethargic and sleep more than usual. Feathers ruffled is another sign, as sick birds often have disheveled feathers due to a lack of grooming. Shivering is a response to feeling cold or unwell, and can be a sign of illness in birds. Excessive flying is not typically a sign of illness, as sick birds usually have reduced activity levels.

Explanation
Birds are often affected by lice and mites that attack their legs and feathers. This is true because lice and mites are common parasites that infest birds. They can cause irritation, itching, feather damage, and even transmit diseases. Birds have specialized grooming behaviors to try to remove these parasites, but they are still susceptible to infestations. Therefore, it is accurate to say that birds are often affected by lice and mites.