Managing the Molt Tips
Read these 5 Managing the Molt Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Bird tips and hundreds of other topics.
Frequent Baths
Make sure your bird gets plenty of baths during the molt. The old feather sheaths will come off easier and your bird will be more comfortable.
Broken blood feathers
Should a blood feather break and start to bleed, use gentle pressure and styptic powder to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding continues, it may be necessary to remove the feather shaft--unless you have experience doing this, it's best to consult a vet.
Blood feathers
Blood feathers are the new, sheath-encased feathers that grow in to replace the old, molted ones. Avoid bumping the blood feathers when playing with your bird. They could start to bleed.
Cranky birds
Some birds may be cranky or nippy during a molt. Make sure they're getting a good diet, plenty of rest, baths, and lots of TLC. Offer treats to soothe irritated feelings.
Feather sheaths
You can make the molt more bearable for your bird by helping remove the old dried sheaths from her new head feathers. Gently scratch at the sheath with your fingernail until it powders and falls away. Careful, though. If the feather is sensitive, you may be rewarded for your trouble with a nip on the finger!
