My green-cheek conure is a seasonal picker. Roughly once a year for the last few years, he’s pulled his chest feathers out, leaving just the down, and a few months later they grow back in. This year he’s done a little more; he’s pulled out the little red epaulets on his shoulders.
At the vet’s suggestion, I’ve put some oil in his food in the past, and that’s helped a bit. I’ve also seen ads for soothing sprays, however, which generally seem to be aloe vera. I’d be curious to hear if you’ve ever tried any of these with your bird?
I know that this sort of problem can be behavioral, but it seems to be seasonal only. He’s generally a happy bird. He spends mornings and evenings out with me, and he has music and toys and a window by his cage while I’m at work.
It’s time for his regular checkup soon anyway, so I will be consulting a professional soon. I’m just trying to get some other opinions from bird owners as well.