Funny you mention this, I had the exact same thing happen to me with my '07 Bird Modern Classic (which turns 12 years old tomorrow according to the serial number oddly enough š). I played it without a pickguard for a few years but it always just felt a bit bare to me.
I must admit I do agree with the running "flubber" theory being that the thicker plastic material used on these models inhibits the tone somewhat, of course this is subjective. I ended up having a well-regarded luthier near me cutting and installing a pickguard matching the shape of the original. The material is much thinner and it seems to do the trick. So now my bird is a country western or "bird and western" rather :). Nice guitar you got there from the looks of it too btw.
Saw a picture of this model on a news article recently.
No, Iām not a fan of this group's music or anything, but was puzzled when I saw this particular guitar model and confused as to what it may be.
Any thoughts are greatly appreciated, Thanks!