Why is my 8-week-old bird excessively itching and losing feathers?

Question

Naomi is full 8 weeks now and should be ready to fly. I know birds usually cleans themselves a lot but Naomi does that all day and aggressively and sometimes by screaming. She already lost 4 of her wing feathers. I checked for any lice or small insect but couldn't find anything. I bathed her today to see if it helped but it didn't. What can cause her this itch? Should I bathe her with aloevera mixed in water? Is it safe for her? Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Female | unspayed | 1 month and 28 days old

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

The use of aloe vera on birds is controversial. Depending on who you ask, you may get a yes or no. Personally, I use only plain water to bathe my birds (African Greys). The itching may be due to mites (which you mayor may not be able to see), bacterial infection, viral infection or nutritional deficiency. By your description, it sounds as if Naomi may be bored, stressed or both. At her age, allowing flight would not be recommended. It looks like you may have an Indian ringneck or Alexandrine parrot based on the partial image. These birds typically aren't weaned until closer to 10 weeks of age. Weaning is a very stressful time for a chick and can also be a cause for her behavior.

Why is my 8-week-old bird excessively itching and losing feathers?

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