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Posted by loreen empey on 1/10/2010
plucker
i have a parakeet pair male/female that are happy and active. however about 4 months ago the female started plucking her upper breast feathers and when the new feathers come in she plucks them too, and when they come in....... also started plucking upper back/under wing and this morning i noticed more missing in a diffenent area yet. at first i thought mites-no mites. i'm now thinking that since she is active and playful that she is just simply a plucker. the cage location hasn't changed either. can you please offer any suggestions. thanks, loreen empey and the plucker.Lafeber Reply
Answered by Brenda on 1/12/2010
Hi Loreen,
Feather plucking can have many causes & often begins with a medical problem. I would recommend a vet check for her. A balanced diet is very important, as poor nutrition can contribute to plucking. It's also possible that she wants to nest & the male is not interested. Plucking is very stressful for her system, as she has to keep growing new feathers. She should be on a pelleted diet or a balanced diet like our Nutri-Berries & Avi-cakes. You should also offer dark leafy greens, fresh fruits & veggies, & healthy table food. Extra protein would be good for her since she is constantly growing new feathers. You can offer cooked eggs, including the eggshell for added calcium. If you contact our customer service at 800-842-6445, they will be glad to send you some free samples of our diets for her to try. They are nutritionally balanced and also offer foraging exercise, which helps keep your birds from getting bored. And even though she has a companion, they still need plenty of toys.
Thank you for asking Lafeber,
Brenda
