feather pulling

[allanw]

I have a rainbow lorikeet, Alfie is his name, that has recently started to pull out his feathers. I have had him to the vet twice and done all the recommended changes. Diet etc. All to no avail. His symptoms are: rather a large squark as if something is biting him (which isnt happening as he has no mites or parasites ) followed by vigorous cleaning or pecking. He doesn't break the skin and hasen't any sores. I would be interested if someone out there could help me. Thanks.

[avinet]

If I could give you an instant cure for feather plucking in parrots I would make a fortune! Unfortunately it is one of the biggest potential problems faced by pet parrot owners.

There are a multitude of causes - parasites (both internal and external), poor diet, boredom, stress, fat under the skin, chronic pain, and, it is being increasingly realized, allergies.

You mention that Alfie has seen a vet - was that an avian vet?

Now for the questions

how old is Alfie and how long have you had him?

Any other birds kept with him?

Size of cage, location of cage, time spent out of cage, and toys etc?

current and previous diet?

Daily routine?

Any changes to the household - people coming or going, new dog or cat, or the loss of one?

Smoker in the house?

Where is the feather plucking occurring - on his body and does he pluck in his cage, out of his cage, on your shoulder etc?

The more you can tell us the more likely we can come up with some ideas.

I have 23 pet birds in the house, and 5 are pluckers to a greater or lesser extent. I know the reasons that 3 Alexandrines pluck, but am unable to fix their problem, A cockatiel was given to us when she was 12 years old and she was plucking then, for reasons unknown, and now, 4 years later is still a plucker. And most frustrating my female African Grey started plucking around 15 months ago at 4 years old and we haven't been able to find the cause or stop her plucking - her mate has perfect feather.

cheers,

Mike