Is it normal for a parrot's beak to chip and break at the edges?

Question

My amazon parrot's beak tip broke off a few days ago and today I discovered that it is worn down even more, and the edges of her lower mandible are chipped. I am assuming all of this wear is from playing rough and 'attacking' her toys and bells, but I am worried if she is nutrient-deficient in some area.

I bought her a cuttle bone (that she doesn't even bother touching) but am not too sure if calcium assists in strengthening keratin. Do I need to add a supplement to her diet to strengthen her beak?

The texture of her beak is also flaky, like it is peeling off layers or molting. Is this typical for an orange winged amazon?

please take a look:

http://a424.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/23/l_92dedaa6eb093e771acfcc433a11cbb7.jpg

Answer 1

Beaks that layer and peel are ususally overgrown.  In captivity, a number of factors contribute to overgrown beaks. Diet plays a role. Be sure your bird is getting ample quantities of vitamins, especially vitamin A and proteins. Both are needed for healthy skin, nails and beaks. Also, provide your bird with objects to chew and rub its beak against. If the beak is excessively overgrown your veterinarian can trim and shape it.

Beaks normally do not become brittle and chip easily. Here, too, not enough protein and vitamins in the diet can be the culprit. Chewing on metal objects and banging into the swing and cage can take its toll, too.

Beaks that grow excessively fast (and of poor quality) may be a sign of liver disease, which was common in parrots fed high fat, sunflower seed-based diets.