Feather picking out

[LoritoPaco]

I am quite worry because my grey has started to pick out his feathers. I cannot see any stressing factor or evident reason.

Can anyone help me? What can I do?

 

Many thanks

[lovemyGreys]

Are you sure his plucking/picking feathers out ? does he have any bald spots on him ? could he be molting ? A little history & age would help us, so we can help you more.

[LoritoPaco]

He's got some bald spots on his breast. Not too much, let's say 3 or 4 spots of half an inch. He started a few months ago.He's 8 years old. I spray some water to calm him down. Also some toys, but it continues.

I feed them with a special mix for parrots, and I offer him some fruits, although he only likes apples and grapes.

[lovemyGreys]

There is always a reason behind the plucking & it can be so frustrating for owners because you have to find out what is causing it, before you can start to fix the problem.Has there been anything that has changed in your greys life recently which may have started him to pluck ?The list is endless but a few possibilities are;

Frustration from long periods in his cage

Lack of mental & physical stimulation

Change of family circumstances/ environment

Incorrect periods of light/darkness

A poor diet, high in fatty foods

Attention seeking.

 

Have you taken him to an avian vet to rule out any medical reasons ?

 

 

 

http://www.greyforums.net/forums/african-grey/47821-feather-plucking-and-red-palm-oil.html#47996

 

 

This one is for aloe vera, which you can spray your grey with...

Many members recommend misting with aloe vera juice.

 

http://www.greyforums.net/forums/african-grey/47707-aloe-vera.html#48819

[LoritoPaco]

The strongest change is that I boght a puppy a year ago. He bark quite a lot.

[lovemyGreys]

It may well be the puppy, it may be his way of getting your attention,Greys will often pluck to get their owners attention, but i would highly recommend a vet visit just to be safe.