Moulting?

[ssbwd]

How do I tell the difference between moulting and plucking? What are the signs of moulting? I noticed a few feathers in the bottom of the playstand, but a couple looked like flight feathers that we had clipped.

[BryanH]

My U2, Maggie, seems so happy. She has always had great plummage. She eats well, gets lots of attention, and is out of the cage most of the week (I work from home most days so she hangs with me).
About 2 weeks ago, I started seeing feathers everywhere. She isn't bare, but MAN she is thin in places. Especially on her chest and wings. Very motley.
I thought I'd give it a few more weeks before heading to the vet. She has no other symptoms of being ill.
My money is on Moulting, but only time will tell.
If I remember, she had some minor feather loss last early fall and the feathers grew back after the 'phase' was over. But, I've had her 4 years (since a baby) and she has never had this problem before that.
I need to start keeping a journal on these types of issues so I don't freak out next time.
Cheers,
Bryan...

[ssbwd]

Hey thanks!!! I found out from another site, that if you look at the ends of the shafts of the feathers that came out, if they're pointed on the ends and don't look chewed up, then it's most likely a moult. But if the ends looked chewed on (like someone who nervously chews a pencil) then they could be plucking. Beeker's all look pointy, and unchewed, so I guess we're safe!

[tielfan]

Before anyone panics over a ragged-looking feather, keep in mind that feathers sometimes get damaged from the bird's normal activities - that's why they molt in the first place! With normal molting you'll occasionally find a feather that looks like it's been chewed. It's time to start worrying when you find a lot of feathers that look chewed.