Why does my bird pull feathers?

Question

My indian ringneck parakeet wont quit pulling every new wingfeather that grows out. i wont to let his wings to grow out but i cant cause he wont quit pullin em. what can i do?

Answer 1

maybe it's itchy and maybe they are bored

Answer 2

Your bird is probably plucking because you are not holding/petting your bird enough

Answer 3

How old is your IRN?  I actually had my Avian Vet completely baffled with this problem when one of my weaning IRN chicks started shredding her primaries right after she fledged.  He ran every test in the book and all within normal limits.  She can't fly now but is no longer shredding/pulling her feathers out.

In the absence of a medical issue and/or nutritional deficiency the issue is strictly behavioral and environmental.  Make sure your IRN is not lacking for anything (the necessary diet, hygeine, mental stimulation).

IRN's are one of the smarter parrots (although they're all highly intelligent) I have a bias and believe that IRN's are a bit more sensitive to change because of their intelligence.  Make sure you give yours plenty of durable toys that he can shred instead of pulling his feathers.

Also check to make sure there are not broken feather shafts that may be irritating his skin and make sure he has access to fresh clean bath water (my guys bathe in a shallow dish several times a week).

Get him checked out by your avian vet if all else fails and he still plucks his feathers, there may be an underlying nutritional deficiency that is causing it and can be corrected with a simple diet modification.

Answer 4

Most birds pluck feathers because they are bored. Put new toys in his cage monthly to keep him entertained. Also allow more time out of his cage daily.