What condition in birds is characterized by cheesy plaques inside the mouth and throat?

The condition characterized by cheesy plaques inside the mouth and throat in birds is known as frounce. This condition is caused by a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas gallinae, which infects the tissues of the mouth, throat, and esophagus. The presence of these plaques indicates the infection and may cause difficulty in feeding, as well as a range of other health issues if untreated. Recognizing this condition is crucial for bird owners and falconers, as it can lead to more severe health problems if the bird's condition worsens.

The other conditions mentioned can cause various health problems in birds but do not specifically present with cheesy plaques in the mouth and throat:

• Seizure refers to sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain but does not cause physical lesions or plaques.
• Rickets is associated with a deficiency in calcium or vitamin D and primarily affects bone integrity, displaying symptoms such as weak bones rather than oral plaques.
• Star gazing, also known as stargazing syndrome, is characterized by unusual head tilting and neck posturing, typically due to neurological issues, rather than any infections or lesions in the mouth.

Understanding these distinctions is important for effective diagnosis and treatment in avian health.