new male parakeet

Question
QUESTION: just got a new male parakeet to keep my female company - i just noticed he has a group of "poops" at the base of his tail - he keeps stratching at it, but it does not seem to come off...his back feathers are "puffed up" a bit towards the back - is this something to worry about as far as his health?? Thanks for helping....

ANSWER: What is the color/consistency of the "poops"?  Its a weird thing to ask, but its an important indicator of its overall health.  Normally, a budgie's poop is a dark green with a creamy middle.  Do his poops look  like that?  The weird poops could be an indicator that something's wrong, but I can't give you any more advice without more information.

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QUESTION: His "poops" look normal, except that theyre "stuck" on his backside - seems alittle better after he flies around a bit, but is still stratching at it without success....thanks for your prompt reply!!

Answer
Try changing his food.  Sometimes changes in food can cause the poops to get sticky and cling to the feathers.  Since he's new, that's probably the problem, especially since they're otherwise normal.  Go to where you got him, and ask what kind of food they gave him before.  Stress can also cause changes in droppings.

Don't worry, he's fine.  Probably just stressed from moving and the change in food.  Just show him lots of love, and get his food sorted out.