What is a common symptom of sour crop in birds?

Sour crop is a condition in birds that occurs when the crop, a part of their digestive system, becomes impacted or infected, typically leading to a buildup of spoiled food and bacteria. A common symptom associated with sour crop is the regurgitation of food. This happens because the bird's digestive system is unable to effectively process what has been consumed, leading to the return of undigested or partially digested food back up the esophagus.

In addition to regurgitation, affected birds may also display signs of lethargy, a foul odor from the mouth, and in some cases, a decrease in appetite. Recognizing regurgitation as a symptom is crucial for timely treatment to avoid more severe health issues that can arise from sour crop.

While excessive thirst, abdominal swelling, and feather plucking can indicate other health problems in birds, they are not the primary symptoms of sour crop. Understanding these distinct symptoms helps in accurately diagnosing and addressing the specific condition a bird may be facing.