Molt
|
-
Molting is the them given to the shedding or loss of old feathers simultaneous with the growth of new ones.
-
Molting is a very stressful period in a birds life, and there are several reasons for this.
-
The flying birds will be more susceptible to predators during this period.
-
This lack of security carries over to pet birds as well.
-
Growing new feathers requires considerable energy.
-
If the bird is already on a good diet, no change is necessary.
-
A marginal diet may need to be boosted.
-
Feather provide insulation from the cold. When many feathers are lost birds require additional warmth around them.
-
As new feathers grow in, increased preening is necessary to bring the feathers to their final stage of maturity.
-
The keratin sheath protecting the young feather is removed, which allow the new adult feather to emerge.
-
During molting period, the stress should be minimized, nutrition should be at higher plan, room temperature should be maintained ideally, and the bird should be encouraged for preening.
|
Last modified: Thursday, 7 June 2012, 8:21 AM