I opened up the nestbox and peeped in to discover that Barbie and Cindy were both on the medium height perch

With regard to that crackling noise, that was the first time I have heard her breathe like that, so shall be keeping a close eye (and ear) on her tomorrow. She certainly wasn't like that yesterday. If she showed signs of being ill, she would have already been to the vets.....but I will observe her for another couple of days. Poor thing.
At least now, with a change of bedding, plus the rain removing the dusty atmosphere, I hope things improve rapidly. I can only hope and pray it isn't anything sinister. I do love that bird.
