Question re. white feathers

[Sarahfarrugia]

I have a black headed caique, around 7 months now. All is great, eats healthy, plays all day and has bonded very well with me and the family

I have a question however as regards the white feathers on his chest as his are still quite yellow/ grey. Is it normal for this age? He eats a pellet based diet, supplemented with fresh fruit and veg; water and cage are cleaned regularly and gets plenty of exercise.

There aren't many caiques where i'm from so any advice is appreciated!

Thanks,

Sarah

 

[Ezekiell]

It could be normal for his age, as the colours will get brighter as he ages and particularly after the first molt.
Also, the feathers will pick up colours from what the bird eats. My WBC had a pink calcium perch for a bit and his white breast feathers turned pinkish from the pink calcium perch. They went back to creamy white once that perch was replaced.
You have to remember as well that unlike most other birds that have white down (under feathers), caiques down is grey. So you’ll see the grey when they’re fluffed up or after a bath/shower whilst their feathers dry out.