Preening vs moulting vs feather plucking

[EclectusLover7]

I have a 3 year old male ekkie that I bought about 2 weeks ago . He likes to preen but I have no idea if he's overdoing it or not. I do find feathers at the bottom of his cage, but they are usually the little white under feathers. I'm not sure if it's just a usual amount from preening, from moulting or is he starting to feather pluck? I usually only find one or two small feathers every day or two. For context it's autumn here in Australia so I'm not sure if this is when they moult. Any advice would be appreciated

 

[rheashard2]

You're still learning your birds habits. Be aware and observant as you are doing. Stress can cause molting. Birds can look very enthusiastic and aggressive in preening. They need to remove dust, dirt, birdie debris etc. A few fluffy feathers on cage bottom isn't uncommon. This can be year round. Feather plucking usually starts with the contour aka visible colored feathers. New feathers are not given a chance to replace them. The fluffy feathers will be easily visible. Some birds will actually pluck themselves bald. If your bird will allow, check for pin feathers. These are feathers that literally look like pins. There's a covering enclosing the growing feathers. This helps protect feathers. They're easily seen on head, neck. Your bird will appreciate a gentle scritch to head to remove old feathers and dried itching covering. I am just as paranoid about feather plucking. Even after 20+years with my CAG. They have a high incidence of feather plucking. I check bottom of cage for feathers daily.