Adoption information
About Macrohabdus (AGY, Megabacteria) Flock
Looking to Adopt a Budgie with Macrorhabdus?
If your flock has previously been diagnosed with Macrorhabdus (also known as avian gastric yeast or Macrorhabdus), one of our special budgies from our Macrorhabdus-positive flock may be the perfect match for your home. Or maybe you don't have any birds, and are looking to add a pair to your home.
These birds are otherwise healthy, active, and full of personality. While they carry Macrorhabdus, they do not currently show any symptoms of illness (and will not be adopted out if showing any symptoms at the time of your enquiry).
What is Macrorhabdus?
Macrorhabdus ornithogaster is a fungus that lives in the digestive tract of birds and is notoriously difficult to eliminate. Despite the outdated name "megabacteria," it’s actually a fungus that has the appearance of a large bacteria. It spreads via droppings and shared food/water sources and can persist in carriers even after treatment.
Is it Dangerous?
Having Macrorhabdus is not a death sentence. Many birds live long, happy lives as asymptomatic carriers. However, if a bird’s immune system becomes compromised (due to stress, another illness, or poor diet) Macrorhabdus may cause a flare-up. In these cases, symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, lethargy, and intense hunger can occur and would require veterinary care.
To reduce the risk of spreading the fungus, these birds are housed separately and are only available for adoption into homes where Macrorhabdus has previously been detected or to home with no other birds or aviaries with no other birds.
If you’re a bird home with a Macrorhabdus-positive flock or a new budgie owner, we’d love to introduce you to some amazing budgies who deserve a second chance.
*These birds vary in age and gender*
Emerald - Female - Adult <2023
Freddy - Male - 2023
Fig - Male - 11/2024
Danny Zuko - Male - 2023
Sandra Dee - Female -
Houdini - Female - Adult <2025
Lumiere - Female - Adult ~ 2025
Mayo - Male - ~01/2026
Pierre - Male - <2022
Princess Daisy - Female - <2023
Seaweed - Female - ~ 11/2025
Bunny - Male - Adult <2026
Zebra Finches - approx 2024-2025
Medical notes
Macrohabdus ornithogaster postive (Asymptomatic)
Adoption details
Adoption Process – Lazzi’s Legacy Bird Rescue & Sanctuary Inc.
Rescue – Rehabilitation – Rehome
Our adoption process begins with an email conversation, including a series of questions designed to help us learn more about you and your home environment. This helps us ensure the best possible match between you and one of our birds.
Once we have identified a suitable bird, a four-week foster period will begin. This trial allows you and the bird to adjust and determine if it’s the right fit. If things don’t work out, you may either trial another bird or choose to have your adoption fee refunded.
If the bird settles in well and you decide to become their forever home—congratulations!
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Adoption Requirements
To ensure the safety and wellbeing of our birds, the following conditions must be met:
- Indoor Cages:
Must have bar spacing of 15mm or less (powder-coated preferred, rust-free). The minimum width for two birds is 70cm.
- Outdoor Aviaries:
Must be at least 1500mm wide with predator-proof mesh, a safety/double door, and a snake/rat-proof base (e.g., concrete with bolts).
- Diet:
Birds must be provided with a diet of fresh vegetables and seeds. Pellets or crumbles are optional but preferred for added nutritional value.
- Out-of-Cage Time:
Birds must be given regular time outside of their cage for enrichment and exercise.
- Breeding:
Breeding is strictly prohibited.
- An adoption and foster contract must be signed during the adoption appointment.
- Hazards:
All hazardous materials (e.g., Teflon, toxic plants, fumes, rope toys, unsafe metals) must be avoided to the best of your ability.
Lazzi’s Legacy reserves the right to decline any adoption application, with or without explanation. However, we are committed to working with applicants to place as many birds as possible into safe, loving homes.
For more information or to begin the process, please contact us at info@lazzislegacy.org.