Birds can be exposed to parasites from their parents, from caged companions or from visiting wild birds.

If your bird has mites or lice, it may appear irritated, and you can often see them among the bird's feathers. Mites can reproduce quickly, and a bird can suffer from an infestation in a short space of time. If not treated, a heavy burden can be fatal. Birds should only be treated for mites and lice once a veterinarian has diagnosed them.