What do cheesy plaques in the mouth, weight loss, and flicking food indicate?

Frounce is a condition caused by the parasite Trichomonas gallinae, which primarily affects birds, particularly pigeons and doves. The cheesy plaques observed in the mouth result from the accumulation of these parasites, leading to lesions and discomfort while eating. Additionally, weight loss occurs because affected birds often struggle to consume food due to the oral lesions, which makes feeding challenging. The flicking of food can be a result of the bird's discomfort as it tries to expel the food, which is an instinctive response to the unpleasant sensations caused by the infection.

Understanding these symptoms in the context of frounce is essential for bird owners and falconers because timely identification and treatment can significantly improve the health and well-being of an affected bird.