feather biting,

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jsantamaria
Posts: 3
Joined: Sun Dec 11, 2011 7:58 pm

feather biting,

Post by jsantamaria »

We have a 7 year old irn who has chewed off every feather he can reach. Have changed his food, changing his toys regularly, purchased a UV lamp, and giving him foraging toys. The vet thinks he may have reached his sexual maturity and perhaps we should add a female. We've had him for four years and this is the first time he's done this - help!!! Anyone experience this? We are approaching the days of the least sunshine and live in a very cloudy area, so there is not an abundance of UV, hence the avian lamp. Thanks!!
Molossus2
Posts: 353
Joined: Fri Sep 09, 2011 4:01 am

Re: feather biting,

Post by Molossus2 »

Plucking is ani indication of boredom or a related psychological issue or you have a biting mite problem. Best have an avian vet diagnose this.
jsantamaria
Posts: 3
Joined: Sun Dec 11, 2011 7:58 pm

Re: feather biting,

Post by jsantamaria »

The avian vet said he is healthy, no mites. Nothing has changed in the house. Its very frustrating as he is now mostly white down feathers. We are giving him new toys daily and foraging treats. If i knew a female would get him to stop, i would get one. This is the first issue in the four years we have had him.
ellieelectrons
Posts: 2708
Joined: Mon Jul 19, 2010 1:17 am
Location: Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

Re: feather biting,

Post by ellieelectrons »

You could get a second bird - probably even another male would be god companionship & may help. I think you coud also increase the foraging so that not just treats are to be foraged but just about all his food. You will need to introduce slowly though so he understands what to do. Don't want to starve the little fella!

Good luck!

Ellie.
jsantamaria
Posts: 3
Joined: Sun Dec 11, 2011 7:58 pm

Re: feather biting,

Post by jsantamaria »

Looks like you have two birds - male and female? Are they in the same cage? The foraging is going well and we have been changing toys daily to keep him occupied. It is not getting any better as he is still plucking (actually breaking) his feathers. I will try all food to be foraged and appreciate your input! thanks - jean
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