Q: My African grey parrot was in great form but last week he suddenly started plucking out his wing and tail feathers. We thought at first he was just upset because I was away but he is still persistently plucking. What can we do?

A: Your parrot needs a full health check fast before he plucks himself bald! Feather plucking in parrots can be caused by a variety of medical and nutritional problems which will need to be investigated. He will also need urgent anti-inflammatory medication and avisoothe spray to stop him plucking and mutilating himself. We also advise switching your bird to Harrison's organic pellets, organic fruit and vegetables and running a blood test for viral and bacterial diseases (PBFD & psittacosis).