Strange feather above Galah tail

Fayt · Jan 23, 2014

Hi all, sorry as this may be an extremely silly/easy to answer question, but I am finding it difficult to find info on the net. My 19 week old galah has this yellowy/brown, small cluster of thick brushy feathers sticking out (very similar in appearence, feel and size to a tip of a small paint brush) surrounded by small pink feathers. It is located in the lower middle of his back, hidden under the soft whiteish feathers under the wings. Is this normal? This is my first galah and may very well be a newbie question. Just want to make sure it is nothing to worry about. I dont have a pic but can take one later if answer isnt obvious for you all. I hope i am not embarrassing myself with this question!

Thanks heaps
Todd

Sassy · Jan 23, 2014

With out a pic I think you are referring to the preening gland. It's like a wick for the oil to come out. This oil doesn't waterproof their feathers but instead converts to vitamin d.

Maria_Metropolis · Jan 23, 2014

If you rub this grouping of feathers between your fingers, you might get some waxy substance on your hand, and that's the preening gland substance.

Fayt · Jan 23, 2014

Thanks guys I searched for the correct name of it and it would appear it is! My Galah is my first large parrot and never noticed it on my smaller ones, thanks heaps for the heads up, cheers!

Maria_Metropolis · Jan 23, 2014

Fayt said:
Thanks guys I searched for the correct name of it and it would appear it is! My Galah is my first large parrot and never noticed it on my smaller ones, thanks heaps for the heads up, cheers!

My cockatiel has one too. I always see him reaching at it with his beak when preening his feathers.

Strange feather above Galah tail

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