How to Care for Birds During the Molt Season | Health Management, Nutrition, and Stress Relief

What is Molt Season? | What Happens to a Bird's Body

Molt (換羽) is a physiological process in which old feathers fall out and new feathers grow in to replace them. Most birds undergo molt once or twice per year, typically at seasonal transitions. In the case of parakeets and parrots, molt tends to occur after the breeding season (late spring to summer) and again in early autumn. Zebra finches and canaries undergo molt similarly, triggered by changes in daylight hours.

During this period, birds' bodies dramatically increase the synthesis of keratin protein, which comprises feathers, consuming far more energy and nutrients than usual. "Blood feathers" (ブラッドフェザー), which contain blood vessels, extend from the skin, and at this stage, some birds feel pain when their feathers are touched. If your bird resists when you try to stroke its neck area, it is likely that blood feathers are still growing in.

The molt period typically lasts approximately 4 to 8 weeks, but this varies greatly depending on individual differences and the rearing environment. If molt lasts excessively long (3 months or more) or continues without stopping—a condition called "chronic molt"—it may signal a health problem.

Health Management | Signs You Cannot Overlook During Molt

During the molt season, birds' immune function tends to decline slightly, making them susceptible to infections and illness. Develop the habit of observing the following points on a daily basis.

Check droppings daily　Observe whether droppings have become watery or if the color has changed dramatically. If the uric acid (white portion) is present in normal amounts, kidney function is intact.

Weigh your bird 1–2 times per week　Since metabolism increases during molt, minor weight fluctuations are normal. However, if your bird loses more than 10% of its body weight in one week, consult an avian veterinarian. A digital kitchen scale that measures to 0.1 grams is ideal.

Observe feather condition　If feathers remain ruffled for an extended period, or if you notice redness on the skin, injuries, or abnormal feather loss, suspect nutritional deficiency or diseases such as psittacosis (chlamydial infection).

Pay attention to changes in activity level and appetite　Many birds become quieter during molt, but a bird that does not move at all or barely eats is in danger. Use the maintenance of at least 80% of normal feeding amount as a benchmark.