Ask Lafeber

cockatoo behavior

I have a S Cr Cockatoo female, 24 yrs. old who constantly preens her feathers and eats the little bits that she pulls off.
Is this O K and does it indicate any type of issue ?

Hi Mitch,

As long as she isn’t pulling out feathers and causing bare areas, I wouldn’t worry about it. Cockatoos have powder down feathers that they have to break open, and then they distribute the powder to their regular feathers, so this may be what you are observing. If she is definitely swallowing these bits, then it might be time for a check up by the Vet. She could possibly have some sort of deficiency depending on her diet.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda