What is on my sun conure???

[joephone]

I have this sun conure, about 3 months old now. It's active and I don't see any problem.

Today I found some weird thick feather (I am not even sure whether it is feather) on his right jaw. All other feather around are small and normal. See the picture attached.

Could anyone tell me what it is? Should I bring him to a vet?

 

[LeaKP]

Those are new feathers coming in, your conure us very sweet to allow you to take the pictures! They may be itchy or painful. You can help him if he allows you by gently pinching the feathers. This helps them open. However if he refuses, don't force it as it can be uncomfortable for them. These are totally normal. In fact, during a moult there can be a large number of new feathers coming in at once! A shower also can help elleviate any itchiness.

 

[JamesC]

Yep. What LeaKP said. Bright and shiny new feathers coming in. Do be gentle if you help your bird break them open. If done too soon as the feather is growing, it will hurt and you will get a squeal and possible nip. But they sure do appreciate the help in opening them up. It is something another bird would do for them around the head. A gentle pinch is all it takes then gently scratch to help pull the shell off the feather.

 

[Skittys_Daddy]

Agree with previous posters. Those are 'pin feathers', aka new feathers growing in.