Featherless Robin

This featherless robin has been in our neighbourhood for weeks. It has only head and flight feathers but manages to find food and survived the viscous heat. ~ Denise

Could this bird have mange? ~ Lynda

Wow! Poor little guy. I'm glad he's eating well and the weather isn’t too bad. He’ll probably recover.

Feather loss in birds can be caused by numerous factors:

• Mites, lice, bacteria, and fungal infections-Definite diagnosis is done through examination of the feathers under the microscope, or by taking cultures of the feathers. 
• Hormonal imbalances-Sometimes a malfunctioning thyroid gland, ovaries, or testicles can result in feather picking. Blood tests or biopsies are needed to confirm that diagnosis. 
• Dietary deficiencies-A lack of protein, fatty acids, certain vitamins or minerals can result in feather loss and/or feather picking. Even though the bird is eating well it might not have the ability to utilize the nutrients in the food. 
• Injury-An injury or illness can prevent birds from preening properly. 
• Psychological problems- Over preening turned to feather plucking might be due to the stress after a shock.

If you give me permission I’ll post the photos on my blog (http://lansingwbu.blogspot.com/) and get some feedback that is more helpful.

Please feel free…thanks for the response. ~ Lynda