Why is my lovebird plucking his feathers out??!?

Question

My lovebird is plucking his feathers out every day until he bleeds, on his neck. Its scaring me and its only getting worse, whats happening? He's almost 5, a male and a peach face.

Answer 1

The biggest reason for plucking is boredom.  Does he have enough toys? Do you keep the same ones in all of the time, or do you change them out with others?  Does he get enough attention?  You can buy a herbal remedy called Pluck No More that you add to the water.  This may help.  If he is left alone during the day while you are at work, school etc. try leaving a radio on for him.

Answer 2

The usual reasons are boredom and/or loneliness unfortunately for any caged bird of the parrot species.

They need sound and stimulation all day long, if not you talking to him , then television, music etc, plus plenty of toys to amuse himself But most of all they need human companionship if single birds particularly, after all it must be awful to be shut up in a cage 24 hours a day with nothing to do and no-one to talk to.

Has he got a mate? I though lovebids generally were sold in pairs, for a good reason I think, they need the company. Possibly more than other varieties.

I hope this helps, If not speak to your local vet, see if they have an avian vet and ask for some advice and help.  

Good luck to you and the bird

Answer 3

This could be because he is stressed and/or doesn't have enough toys or things in his cage to keep him busy.

Answer 4

well it is a lovebird and they do do better in pairs, but since it is five i would say that it is definately bored. If birds do not have something to do that is what they choose. It will leep doing it unless it gets some interaction, or u put some toys for it to play with.