Do young birds outgrow feather plucking habits?
Written by
David Smith
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Young birds often never recover from feather pulling naturally. The habit worsens without intervention because habits become neurologically ingrained. I have treated young feather-plucking parrots that progressed to severe skin damage within a few months. Early professional intervention can prevent the permanent destruction of the follicles and chronic stress.
Neuroanatomical pathways become well established quickly in developing birds. Repeated plucking creates pathways that reinforce this behavior. The compulsive behavior intensifies weekly. Allowing a natural resolution of the problem is dangerous, as this could lead to irreversible damage. My cockatoo patients present bald spots that are permanent after six weeks of unrelieved plucking.
Professional Support
- Avian vet assessment within first two weeks
- Behaviorist consultation for habit reversal plans
- Medical treatment for underlying conditions
- Follow-up appointments every 4-6 weeks
Home Management
- Daily distraction with foraging toys
- Strict routines for feeding and sleeping
- Environmental stressor removal
- Positive reinforcement training
To ensure success, prompt treatment is necessary. Veterinary exams should be performed initially to rule out any medical causes. Behavior modification should be undertaken before the end of the third week. Attempts should also be made to divert the parrotlet's attention during the habitual plucking times. One parrotlet, which would pluck, stopped prompting by the introduction of puzzle feeders during the vulnerable hours.
Long-term care becomes critical for behaviors that have become habitual. Consistency in behavior is more important than the strength of the treatment. Continue behavior modification programs for 6-12 months minimum. Progress can be assessed through weekly feather mapping. Individual patterns of response can determine the change in strategies. Professional assistance should be continually sought.
Recovery requires patience, but it brings results. Recently, a client of ours who has budgies has been through a six-month program with her budgies. Her bird is now fully feathered despite very severe and early feather plucking, and her commitment and persistence have caused this miracle. You can change your situation for the better. Start your beneficial changes today to reach your best outcome.
Read the full article: Understanding Bird Feather Plucking: Causes and Solutions
