Molting is a natural process that parakeets go through where they shed old feathers and grow new ones. This usually happens once or twice a year. There are some signs you can look for to tell if your parakeet is molting.
Increased preening
One of the first signs you may notice when your parakeet starts molting is that it spends more time preening itself. Your parakeet will use its beak to pick at and pull out old feathers to make way for new feathers coming in. You may see your parakeet preening multiple times a day during molting season.
Feathers on the bottom of the cage
As your parakeet preens and pulls out old feathers, you will likely start to see more feathers accumulating on the bottom of the cage. Small feather dander and particles are normal in a parakeet cage, but during molting you will notice an increase in the number of larger feathers at the bottom of the cage.
New pin feathers
After old feathers are pulled out, new feathers will start to emerge. These new feathers start out as pin feathers, which are pointy shafts that appear where feathers used to be. Pin feathers will need to be broken open by the parakeet as the feathers grow in. So if you notice pin feathers along your parakeet’s body, that is a clear sign that new feathers are growing.
Bald spots
When a parakeet loses a lot of feathers in one area during molting, bald spots may temporarily appear. These bald spots indicate feathers have been shed in that area and new feathers have not fully grown in yet. Don’t worry if you notice these bald patches, they will fill in with new feathers over time.
Extra fluffed appearance
When a parakeet molts, its feathers can become ruffled and extra fluffed up. Without its usual sleek feather coat, a molting parakeet may appear scruffy, have flyaway feathers sticking up, and generally look unkempt. This messy appearance is temporary during the molting process.
Increased appetite
Molting takes a lot of energy, so you may notice an increase in your parakeet’s appetite. Be sure to provide a nutritious diet with ample pellets, vegetables, and fruit during molting season. Increased protein sources can also help support feather growth.
Lethargy
Some parakeets can become more tired and lethargic when molting. This is because it takes a lot of resources and energy for their bodies to grow all new feathers. Proper diet and rest can help counteract molting fatigue.
Irritability
Parakeets may be irritable or nippy during molting. Pin feathers under the skin as feathers grow in can cause discomfort. Providing toys, chews, and calcium supplements can help relieve irritation and discomfort.
Delayed singing/chatting
You may notice your normally vocal parakeet is quieter when molting. The energy spent on growing new feathers can cause some parakeets to delay singing and chattering until after molting is over.
Increased time sleeping
Parakeets need more sleep during the exhausting feather regeneration process. You may notice your parakeet sleeping more often or for longer periods. Let your parakeet get ample rest as his body works hard to molt.
Excessive dry skin
Molting parakeets are prone to dry, flaky, itchy skin. Increase humidity levels and provide baths to help moisturize skin. You can also use a mister bottle to spray a light mist over your parakeet.
Beak overgrowth
Overgrown beaks can happen during molting since parakeets spend less time chewing and more time sleeping. Make sure to provide plenty of chew toys and watch your parakeet’s beak length.
How long does molting last?
Molting duration depends on the individual parakeet. Some take 4-6 weeks to fully molt while others can take 12-18 weeks. Larger parakeets and older parakeets may molt over a longer time frame. Patience is key since molting cannot be rushed.
Tips for helping your molting parakeet
Here are some tips to help care for your parakeet while he molts:
- Increase protein – Offer extra sources like eggs, beans, and nuts
- Provide baths – Bathing helps ease dry, itchy skin
- Supplement with minerals – Powdered calcium supports feather growth
- Reduce stress – Decrease handling to allow more rest
- Check beak length – Trim overgrown beaks if needed
- Add humidifier – Dry air can aggravate dry skin
- Groom gently – Use a soft brush to distribute feathers
- Get full spectrum lighting – Helps balance hormones for molting
When to see an avian vet
See an avian vet if you notice any of the following:
- Molting for longer than 3 months
- Weight loss
- Labored breathing
- No new feather growth
- Swollen eyes/nostrils
- Crusty eyes/nose
- Loss of appetite
- Feather destructive chewing
- Bleeding pin feathers
These could indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
Conclusion
Molting is a natural shedding process that parakeets go through periodically. Be on the lookout for signs like increased preening, bald spots, pin feathers, and feather buildup around the cage. With some extra care and patience, your parakeet can fully renew its feathers during molting season. Provide ample rest, nutrition, and humid conditions to help your parakeet complete the molt smoothly.