Is this a bad idea?

[B.B.]

Is it a bad idea to groom your bird's face with your lips? >o
I just started to do this recently and he seems to just love it. I don't think of him as dirty, but I'm wondering if there are any health risks.

[beckyg]

I believe that our saliva can make them sick. (I have read something about this on this board) Not sure of the specifics on this, but I would be careful just for that reason. I try to keep Luna away from my mouth.

I found this on the resource page under top 10 bird killers:

"Owners must understand that it is dangerous for pet birds to have direct contact with their owner's mouths. We carry bacteria and fungi that can cause serious infection, or even death, in our birds. Birds should never be kissed with an open mouth, nor should birds be allowed any contact with the owner's teeth, tongue, lips or saliva."

[bellarains]

Yep, our saliva can be deadly to our birds, not to mention, you yourself could pick up some bacteria.

Instead of preening him with your lips, try rubbing your nose around his neck. They see this is a sort of preening, but of course, only if you don't have a runny nose;)

[Screamer]

You're going to start laying eggs now.

:)