I've kept cockatoos for many years and yours is a common and frustrating problem. Unfortunately the causes can be complex. Feather plucking is a never-ending source of articles in both parrot magazines and veterinary texts. The causes can be emotional, physical, dietary, hormonal or a combination. It has been likened to stress related nail biting in humans. Even when the apparent cause of the stress is removed the "habit" remains. You may want to check with an avian vet in case something can be done about the errant feather. If you are lucky it is just the irritation from that feather that is triggering the rest of the plucking. My best advice is to provide him with a stable routine environment with regular attention, a varied diet, and a rotating variety of boredom relieving toys and chewing options. Regular access to bathing either in the shower or with a spray bottle can also he helpful. These are some of the most easily addressed of the suspected causes. Breeding frustration is unfortunately the one other frequently cited cause of plucking.
Good luck with your new companion, they are very charming and intelligent birds.
Thea
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