Why Do Parrots Pluck Their Feathers?

1 Common Causes

Missing nutrients: a diet short on amino acids, salt, calcium, phosphorus, or vitamins leads to plucking.

Poor housing: crowding, weak ventilation, strong light, or high heat can trigger it.

External parasites: mites and the like make the bird pluck.

Nesting need: in breeding season, without enough nesting material the hen pulls her own or the chicks’ feathers to fill the nest.

Boredom: the top cause in caged pets – little to do and few companions invite self-plucking for amusement.

Anxiety: long loneliness or a new, insecure environment raises stress and plucking; mating hormones have the same effect, which eases after the season.

2 How to Prevent It

Give enough space and separate chicks from parents to lower density. Adjust feed by life stage for balanced nutrition. Offer natural gypsum, cuttlebone or shell powder, bone meal, and greens. Disinfect the cage and bird room and spray for external parasites on schedule.