Help with wheezing zebra finch?

Question

I've got a female zebra finch, who seems to have lost her voice. She looks like she's either gasping or coughing jerkily several times in a row with her head tilted back (I can't tell which because there's no sound), and then looks like she's calling furiously, but all we can hear is a slight clicking noise, like someone tapping on plastic. She hasn't been as active as usual, mostly sitting with her eyes shut and her feathers a bit fluffed while repeatedly doing her cough / gasp. I've seen her fly to get water and food though, and if she knows someone is watching her she keeps an eye on them. What's wrong with her, and what should I do? I have some human antibiotics, but I'm uncertain whether they're ok for my bird.

Answer 1

Do not give your bird human antibiotics, they are made for the weight and body of a human not a bird.  I would take her to the vet if this is really concerning you.

Answer 2

She either has crop mites or a respiratory infection. Neither one is easy to get rid of.  

Answer 3

Sounds like a respitory infection.  She needs to see an avian vet tomorrow morning, asap.  Infections are deadly if not treated properly in time.

No, human antibiotics will not work, either will the over the counter bird ones.  Only perscription medication will have a chance of saving her.