Vocalization is by means of a syrinx, not a larynx as in mammals. This column will describe the structure of the avian respiratory system. The following article will cover common problems and diseases and why birds are so sensitive to chemicals. The nostrils or nares are usually located at the base of the beak. Amazons have a structure known as an operculum inside the nare which helps prevent inhalation of foreign bodies.
Air enters the nares and moves in the nasal cavity.
The nasal cavity is divided into a right and left side by a nasal septum. This septum is composed of cartilage and bone. Highly vascularized projections, nasal conchae , project from the lateral walls into the nasal cavity. These increase the surface over which inhaled air passes. A large sinus known as the infraorbital sinus, surrounds the eye and extends into the upper and lower beak.