Not Preening Well

[DaisyNibbler]

My little Nibbler is probably around 1 year old and is experiencing "his" first molt since I have owned him. Unfortunately Nibbler hasn't figured out how to get the keratin coating off of his feathers and looks ratty! I have one other bird that is in very good condition so I don't think the humidity is too low... They get along with each other, but don't like to touch each other or anything so I don't think Nibbler is going to pick up preening from the other bird. What do I do? I have tried to kind of smoosh the keratin coatings inbetween my fingers but there are just too many of them, and some of them are too sore to touch! Nibbler needs your help!!!

[Erin CG]

Hi, and welcome to TailFeathers!o

Have you tried giving Nibbler a bath? I mist my cockatiels with a spray bottle. When wet, cockatiels seem to take an interest in preening. Also, the moisture could help his skin and keep the oil flowing, which should help with the pin feathers. Hope this works!

[DaisyNibbler]

We usually give "him" a shower once a week, but I don't know if that is enough - I will try spraying him tomorrow though! Thanks
Kurt

[featherjinxer]

They often don't take it off while it is growing, as well, since the shaft is so sore. He may just be letting them grow in allt he way before messing with them.
You can rub them between your fingers if he lets you, and like was said, a shower will help some .

[Eleora]

a nice warm bath helps my babies

[NeapolitanSixth]

If nibbler doesn't like the bath, spray bottle, or shower, try sprinkling water on him with your fingers...some people have said that this doesn't get their tiels remotely wet, but I've found that Sophie (who is beginning to like the shower, but still dislikes bathing) will let me drizzle a handful of water on her back repeatedly. I've heard something about using aloe vera in the water too, but someone else will have to elaborate on that. Good luck with your baby!

-Nikki