Hi all, while I was originally set on adopting a conure, I got a response to my ad on craigslist about a 6 year old female african grey. Not sure if Rosie's a Congo or Timneh yet, but should know soon when she emails me back. She has started picking at her chest feathers, not to the point of plucking yet. Her current owner went back to work full time and is heartbroken to find her a new home where she can get the attention she needs. I've never dealt with a self-mutilator in the past. Seeing that it's not severe, will regular attention kick her out of the habit? She'll be getting a well checkup at the vet if we bring her home to get tested for anything else that may be causing it, but assuming it's beahviour related, will it clear up with regular attention and TLC? I'll be sure to keep everyone updated, I've always had a thing for greys since I handled my first one a few years back. Seems like that loooong wait was for something good after all!

I have never had experience with pluckers, but someone should come along shortly that has to help out.

If the plucking started recently then it could very well be because the owner is not with her as much. It sounds like it isn't a serious problem and with the attention you can give her should work itself out. Many birds, not only Greys, will pluck when a change is made in their lives.

I've read many times that once plucking/chewing starts its difficult to stop. It becomes a habit for them.

You may also want to ask if the bird is getting regular baths. If not, that could also be a contributing factor to the feather picking.

I hope it all works out! I've said many times that my love for Ollie wouldn't change in the least if she started plucking. You can still give this baby a wonderful home!

One of my male Congo Greys always plucked when kept permanently indoors (with 1st owner) or whenever he was brought indoors by myself (on occassion) after I purchased him. Once he was moved outdoors into a full flight aviary with daily direct sunshine, humidity and a playmate of his own species, he stopped plucking and has never plucked again. I also agree that neglect or not enough attention (to include not being able to bathe) could also cause plucking - among numerous other reasons. May be best to rule out any disease problems or physical conditions first - by seeing a well experienced certified Avian Vet for specific tests - one who is not out to fleece your pockets of course.

When the love stops the hurt begins.
The number one cause of plucking is (emotional), however there are other reasons, Poor Diet, Bathing issues, etc.
1rst owner, 2nd owner and on and on, this has a very negitive effect on any bird, they feel all we feel.
I have seen many pluckers stop there plucking when LOVE (unconditional) is given.
All (new) birds should be taken to your vet for a check up, your vet will tell you if there is a diet issue and or a skin issue that maybe causing the plucking.
But don't be surprized if you here a common word, (LOVE) come from your vets recomendations.
We offer our Grey's a bath 2 times a week here in our avairies and the most important item you can ever offer any bird....A FOREVER HOME, WITH A LOVE THAT HAS NO SHUT OFF SWITCH.
Good Luck.
BrokenWing

Thanks everyone. I attached the pictures she sent me. Since it has just happened recently when she started working full time, I'm thinking it's just the emotional aspect. I'll set up an appointment with the vet when she comes home to get everything checked out just in case.

Attached Files

	Rosie1.pdf (35.4 KB, 17 views)
	Rosie2.pdf (39.7 KB, 10 views)
	Rosie3.pdf (26.1 KB, 10 views)
	Rosie4.pdf (35.9 KB, 10 views)
	Rosie5.pdf (33.6 KB, 10 views)

What a cutie! When do you expect to have her home?

Hopefully, next weekend. There is also a sun conure that I am meeting and whoever I click with more, I will be taking home. I have a feeling that Rosie will be coming home with me. LOL Greys have always been my dream birds, I was planning on getting one later on in life when I have my own place, etc. but sometimes things just fall into your lap.

She is a beauty. And worst case, if she is happy and healthy and continues to pluck, she will still be in a wonderful home and well loved. Congrats!