Tail feathers

[Weezerj]

My Illigers macaw has 2 tail feathers that look like they are in a straw. One is short and 80% encased, while the other is long and only has 20% near the base encased.

Do I need to be worried or try to break them free? He isn't really trusting me enough yet to let me touch him anywhere, so this won't be easy.....

(I will try to get pics tonight if needed)

 

[JerseyWendy]

Don't worry, the sheaths will come off. Frequently misting those particular areas with warm water will soften them up and may speed things up a bit.

 

[Kiwibird]

Awww... his poor butt is probably uncomfortable right now, but that is totally normal and he will preen them off (or they'll just fall off) when the new feather is ready to come out