Parrot feathers are an essential element to know their state of health and quality of life. Being the main means by which various pathologies or deficiencies are manifested in the care of parrots. The problems or anomalies that can occur in their plumage range from discoloration or the appearance of marks, to the breakage or detachment of the plumage.
It is important to know the 6 reasons why your parrot has feather problems, to know when something goes from being a natural activity of his body, to a problem that can affect his life.
1. Psychological factors
Parrots are animals that require activity and interaction to keep them entertained. In the same way they are particularly vulnerable to anxiety, stress, depression, feelings of loneliness or boredom.
Lack of activity and interaction can lead to compulsive behaviors or moods that lead the bird to pluck its feathers. As well as an accelerated shedding of feathers outside the molting period, along with the presence of marks or bands on their feathers due to stress.
2. Nutritional deficiencies or poor nutrition
Feeding has a direct effect on the condition of a parrot’s feathers. It may cause feather loss, depigmentation, change in feather coloration or feather breakage.
Along with psychological factors, nutritional deficiencies or poor nutrition are often one of the main reasons for feather problems in parrots. Especially due to the lack of a balanced and varied diet.
3. Bacterial infections and diseases
The presence of dermatological or fungal infections, as well as bacterial diseases, are a major problem for the health of the parrot and its feathers. In some cases, mainly with dermatological infections, the parrot may acquire an abnormal behavior called itching. In which the bird plucks its own feathers, even to the point of serious injury.
4. Environmental factors
Parrots are very sensitive to all elements of their environment. Excessive humidity or lack of it, tobacco or cooking smoke, little contact with sunlight, or an unfavorable and reduced environment, can influence the condition of their feathers. In some cases, this can lead to stress problems or cause illnesses.
5. External parasites
External parasites such as ticks, mites and lice are a common cause of feather problems in parrots. This usually happens due to allergies or skin irritation, leading the animal to pull out its feathers.
6. Other causes
Sexual frustration, hormonal imbalance and skin alterations such as bruises or cysts are other reasons for feather problems in parrots. This is combined with other factors such as stress or environmental causes.
