OH NO!!!!!! You have me in tears now! NOOOOO! Not precious Azure birdie! Noooo! This is the second precious bird Pet Talkers have lost this week after ChrisH's Bonnie. I am SOOOOOOOOO sorry. I know how much you loved your precious Azure baby and you had him for so many years. I am so sorry. Since you said he was not sick, do you have any idea what must have happened? Birds almost always show symptoms before dying, unless it is because of teflon fumes, which can cause sudden death. Did you use any non-stick pans around the house that may have started to over-heat? Did you spray anything in the house? Did you use a teflon coated iron, or toaster or anything dangerous around Azure? I think you mentioned Rilla and Azure live in the same cage before. Although cockatiels are very gentle birds and usually don't harm other birds, even from different species, do you think she could have accidently hurt him in anyway? There is always a possibilty of disease, and even though there is much grief, for the sake of your other bird, I would advise that you disinfect the cage, and take Rilla to the vet immediately to check for any disease. If Azure birdie was ill, Rilla could have been exposed so please get her checked to be on the safe side. Birds are masters in disguise and many birds pretend they are fine when they are actually not feeling well. As sick bird will almost always show a change in droppings. How old was Azure? Maybe old age was a cause, but from what I remember, he wasn't very old. I am so sorry for your loss. Words cannot explain how much I feel for you. Please take care of yourself and take care of Rilla. Only time can heal the pains of such a great loss. And of course Azure was not JUST a bird. A bird can be the greatest companion anyone could have and every pet bird is valued by their family just as any other pet. Azure was a VERY special birdie. I think you said previously that he could talk. Not many budgies manage to talk. Azure will always be in your heart, and you in his. It will not be easy, but time will slowly heal the pains, and bring back memories of your sweetie bird Azure.