Parrotlet's feathers...

[Cindyluwho]

We have a 3 year old parrotlet whose feathers have never looked right. He has always looked very straggly and w e have no idea why. Any thoughts? We would appreciate any suggestions.

 

[Yoshi&Raphi]

I do not know much about parrotlets but those feathers do not look normal, Has he seen a vet about it?

 

[Shezbug]

Have you seen how this bird preens? Is he perhaps chewing at his feathers or is this how they grow?
I also think a vet appointment would be a good thing if you have not already done that.

@Mizzely, @Monica @JLcribber @enigma731.......hopefully someone else will have more of an idea why your birds feathers look as they do?

 

[fashionfobie]

I agree with the above comments. The first step is a vet visit to establish a baseline of care. Parrotlets can pluck or damage their own feathers from psychological or physical health issues. It is important to rule out any physical health issues first.

Welcome to the forum! I hope we can get you and your little one on the right track.

In the short term, what kind of toys is your little one getting? Adding some more activities may help reduce feather picking whilst you sort out the vet.

 

[Mizzely]

So many possible reasons!

Diet related (lack of nutrients can cause poor feather growth)
Boredom related feather destruction (what is the cage size, what toys are available to him)
Psychological related feather destruction(loneliness, stress)
Health related feather destruction (some birds pluck when they are in pain)
Disease (PBFD, etc)
Genetic (some birds have weird feather mutations)

So what is this bird's diet and lifestyle like? Has he been to the vet to rule out any health problems?

 

[Monica]

@Shezbug You've covered it! Vet check to rule out any medical issues, then we can look at environmental factors.

Full list of issues of why can be long...


The Basics of Feather Picking

 

[enigma731]

Definitely looks like chewing or plucking. Should be evaluated for medical causes.

 

[Beasley]

Oh my the poor baby! Please get him to a vet, that looks absolutely miserable

 

[Cynthia & Percy]

welcome