My African Grey (Ernie)

[virginia]

Hi My name is Denise, I have had my bird 23 years always very healthy till he started plucking after molting and not sure why. I am going to try the remedy of rose water and glycerin to spray him with.

 

[Kiwibird]

Please do NOT spray your bird with anything but fresh, clean water unless explicitly instructed to do so by an avian vet!

Seeing as you have had your bird so long and the plucking is a recent development, I would strongly suggest getting him in to see an avian specialized vet soon. Unless there have been any major life changes recently (such as spending less time with him, a new pet, moving to a new home etc...), happy, healthy, well adjusted parrots don't just start plucking at random. There are numerous medical reasons (such as a food allergy, heavy metal poisoning, infection, fatty liver disease etc...) that only a vet who specializes in birds can correctly diagnose. I see you live in California, where there are fortunately many avian specialized vets. Do a search in your area and get him in to see one ASAP.

 

[Scott]

Welcome to the forums, Denise! Great advice above.

Plucking is a complex and vexing behavior. This thread covers many aspects to plucking and offers some advice: http://www.parrotforums.com/behavioral/52217-plucking-search-answers.html

 

[virginia]

thank you all so much. the only thing different i think is i was giving him almonds as a special treat. i am into natural oils, I don't defuse it anymore are the oils dangerous for him? Does anyone know of a good vet near Newark, CA. I have only took him when he was first born and never went back they were awful. I have been very lucky he hasn't been sick. I did move 2 years ago but it has only happened after his molting this year. He usually is very well adjusted in most situations.

 

[Scott]

I'd recommend caution with oils. Found a few discussion threads to share:
http://www.parrotforums.com/questions-answers/71025-options-besides-essential-oils.html
http://www.parrotforums.com/conures/73502-safe-diffused-natural-oils.html
http://www.parrotforums.com/conures/70020-essential-oils.html
You can do an "advanced search" and find many more!

Avian vet search engines:
Association of Avian Veterinarians

If you want a board certified diplomate (ABVP) use the following link, choose "avian" from the drop down menu. Nothing in Newark, Oakland, or San Jose, but selecting San Francisco will give results:
https://abvp.com/animal-owners/find-an-abvp-specialist/

Almonds are a favorite treat, but high in fat and calories! Try breaking into a few pieces, or purchase "slivered" almonds. Given the chance, most parrots will chow down on several almonds at a time!