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My bird's tail feathers keep falling out after regrowing. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Cockatiel | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 26 days old

My bird lost 2 tail feathers. Grew them back and then they fell off again. Why did this happen?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on March 14th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Rio and including a photo. Nutritional deficiencies, bacterial infections of the feather follicle, some viral diseases, are all possibilities (among others). With how "pinched" to tip of the feather appears, concerns over Psittacine Beak & Feather Disease, should be ruled out. A veterinary visit is recommended for testing and a nutritional consult. Feather growth requires a substantial protein expenditure so plant based proteins (beans, sprouted seeds, legumes) should be a component of the diet. Good luck.

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