Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My cockatiel is about 30 years old, which I know is very old. He is considerably very healthy. He had a "wife" a female bird about 15 yrs ago, who died when she became eggbound. Ever since he has hated being handled and even bites though prior to this incident he was very friendly. He still sings and chirps and likes to look at the birds outside through his cage, but will not come out.

Last night he fell off his perch and his feathers on his wing seem to be bothering him. There is no blood but his foot and his wing seem to be giving him a hard time.

I'm afraid that taking him to the vet will put him in shock and possibly make him even worse. I love this bird with all my heart and he has been in my life for a very long time.

He also has small red bumps under his one wing and seems to be itchy, this probably isn't a big issue but if anyone can help me through any of this I'd really appreciate it.

Sorry this is so long, he is family to me. Thank you

I am not sure on the itchy red bumps unless it is a form of mites. As long as you are able to pick up, handle or move your cockatiel under normal circumstances I really don't think a trip to the vet would stress him enough to kill him. If your bird has never been handled are you able to take him cage and all to the vet? As long as you go to a true avian vet he should be experienced enough with birds to know the correct way to get him out of the cage without causing undue stress. Also if you know a good avian vet you could call and ask there opinion on this but I would say if there is any way possible try to get him to a vet.