Yellow-Sided Conure feathers question?

[Jxjaxj]

I noticed about 5 grey feathers on the bottom of the cage. Is that normal or is that a sign that the 1 year old conure has a plucking problem? If it is a problem, can anyone give me any advice on what's the best way to fix this problem, a certain spray from pet store, etc? The feathers is coming from his head area since that is the only grey part on the conure. Thanks for your help!

 

[weco]

If these are fluffy/fuzzy feathers, they're down feathers & your YSGC is beginning to molt.....actually, even if they're not fluffy/fuzzy, they're probably still molted feathers, it's that time of the year for most parrot species.....

 

[Amanda_Bennett]

I would say the parrot is most likely molting. I'm pretty sure if they are from his head he couldn't be "plucking" them himself. I'm pretty sure most "pluckers" will pluck chest and wing feathers, not head feathers. (someone feel free to correct me if I am wrong on this one)

 

[Jxjaxj]

Thanks for the responses. I just thought feathers was coming off the head area because when I was petting his head for a while earlier, I just noticed some clearish hard strands on top of his head. Is that normal and thanks again for all of your help. I know some of my questions might sound weird but I just want to make sure nothing is wrong with the conure and if something is, I just wanted to know how to help him. I trust your opinions over the staff at pet shops.

 

[weco]

Thanks for the responses. I just thought feathers was coming off the head area because when I was petting his head for a while earlier, I just noticed some clearish hard strands on top of his head. Is that normal and thanks again for all of your help. I know some of my questions might sound weird but I just want to make sure nothing is wrong with the conure and if something is, I just wanted to know how to help him. I trust your opinions over the staff at pet shops.

Those are feather sheaths and protect new feathers as they erupt through the bird's skin and grow into place.....some birds will allow you to gently squeeze a completed sheath gently, between your finger nails, but don't wiggle your fingers or the sheath around, pushing it down, around or sideways while pinching them or you might get nipped.....