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Birds--General/pigeons feathers falling out

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Expert: - 8/23/2008


Question
was wondering if you could please help, my pet pigeons feathers seem to be coming out not quite sure on what the problem is i dont think it it mite, it looks sore any ideas of what and how to treat thanks

Answer
Hi, Martin,

Are feathers coming out in one location or are you seeing a feather here, a feather there, etc.?  This is the time of year when pigeons start molting, which is a process whereby all feathers on the bird's body are replaced with new feathers.  This doesn't happen all at once though...you might see 1 or 2 feathers falling out per day (sometimes more per day, depending on the severity of the molt).  

I would have to have more information about the problem in order to assist further.  You mention the area looks "sore"...I would have to know what you mean by this, i.e., is the area bleeding, scabbed over, etc.

Chrys

Birds--General

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Chrys Meatyard

Expertise

I`ve been raising/breeding/handfeeding/selling parrots for over 20 years (parakeets/budgies, cockatiels, 6 subspecies of conures, parrotlets, amazons, lovebirds, etc.). I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England. I can provide advice in raising healthy birds, handfeeding/weaning babies, some health problems (although I'm NOT an avian veterinarian), nail/beak/wing clipping, general husbandry, etc. I also have experience with racing/showing homing pigeons. I cannot diagnose specific illness over this website. If you suspect your bird is ill or if you have an emergency, contact an avian veterinarian or emergency pet clinic ASAP.

Experience

Experience: Over 20 years raising parrots and over 13 years raising pigeons. Organizations: Currently, American Racing Pigeon Union and American Federation of Aviculture. Prior member Miami Valley Bird Club, Southern Ohio Pigeon Association, National Cockatiel Society, Miami Valley Sportsman's Club, others. Publications: Monthly newsletters of bird clubs.

Publications
I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England.

Education/Credentials
American Federation of Aviculture, completed Level I course, Fundamentals of Aviculture. Keeping/breeding parrots and other birds for over 20 years.

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