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Birds--General/molting question

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Expert: - 10/7/2007


Question
my daughter's parakeet seems to be molting for the first time.  We've noticed that it's normally white face has grayish-brown patches.  Should we be concerned or is this just part of molting?  Thanks,
                             Mark Maida

Answer
Hi, Mark,

If the bird is molting for the first time, it is likely a young bird that has not yet feathered out with its adult coloration.  With the first 2 molts (at about 6 months and again at 12 months), adult coloration is coming through, which is likely what is happening with your daughter's bird.  Most keets have some type of markings on their faces like you describe, depending on the overall coloration of the bird.

Chrys

Birds--General

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Chrys Meatyard

Expertise

I`ve been raising/breeding/handfeeding/selling parrots for over 20 years (parakeets/budgies, cockatiels, 6 subspecies of conures, parrotlets, amazons, lovebirds, etc.). I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England. I can provide advice in raising healthy birds, handfeeding/weaning babies, some health problems (although I'm NOT an avian veterinarian), nail/beak/wing clipping, general husbandry, etc. I also have experience with racing/showing homing pigeons. I cannot diagnose specific illness over this website. If you suspect your bird is ill or if you have an emergency, contact an avian veterinarian or emergency pet clinic ASAP.

Experience

Experience: Over 20 years raising parrots and over 13 years raising pigeons. Organizations: Currently, American Racing Pigeon Union and American Federation of Aviculture. Prior member Miami Valley Bird Club, Southern Ohio Pigeon Association, National Cockatiel Society, Miami Valley Sportsman's Club, others. Publications: Monthly newsletters of bird clubs.

Publications
I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England.

Education/Credentials
American Federation of Aviculture, completed Level I course, Fundamentals of Aviculture. Keeping/breeding parrots and other birds for over 20 years.

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