Ask Lafeber

Bird plucking

I would like to know what I can do to help my female Eclectus Parrot from plucking out her feathers? She is hormonal and has been laying eggs, but I’m getting concerned she’ll pluck herself to bleed.

Hi Sara,

Plucking can be a complicated issue that generally involves physical and behavioral issues. Given her hormonal state and the fact that she is also laying eggs, your best option is to begin with a visit to a Avian Vet. The egg laying is actually a larger concern because it will compromise her health if she lays too many eggs. we tend to trigger our birds hormones through over petting. When handling her, it is best to stick to head scratches. When you pet her on her back, front or around her tail, this is something only a mate will do so this trigger her hormones. She should not have a nest or anything she can use as a nest. Also, give her nothing to shred. In extreme cases, the Vet may have to give her a hormone injection to stop her egg laying cycle. If you can get her hormones in check and see what the Vet finds, then you can address the plucking.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda