cocketeil

my bird is in very bad condition its feathers on its back have been chewed by the bird I believe its some kind of mite can you tell me a good treatment for this mite but the infected area is on its back chest and under the wings.
please can anyone help.

[ireneo]

I do know there are sprays at the pet store for feather mites and lice. I use them at work. But if the skin is badly irritated, I'm not sure that would be a good treatment. I never use the spray on wounded areas. It might be best to call your vet first.

[cmcn]

Your bird may NOT have any sort of mites.  Birds chew their feathers for any number of reasons, and it's sometimes tough to narrow down the cause for a particular bird.  First thing to look at is diet.  DO NOT FEED YOUR BIRD A SEED-ONLY DIET.  They need variety, and be sure to include fresh veggies.  He/she may not eat them at first, but just keep offering it.  Most cockatiels enjoy being sprayed with warm water.  Get a cheap spray bottle and mist the bird thoroughly every day.  He/she will then spend a bit of time preening rather than chewing/plucking.  

Another common problem is emotional issues.  One of my birds plucked herself badly after the death of my husband, and a move to a new house.  She cleaned her chest of feathers and then couldn't stop, and actually made a wound in her chest.  I had to take her to the vet to be fitted with a special collar that prevented her chewing.  She wore this for several weeks and thankfully did not resume the chewing when it was removed [though some birds do].  Make sure your bird is getting plenty of attention, being talked to and interacted with on a regular basis.  

Good luck, and let me know how you work things out.  It will take some time, as this is a tricky problem.