Moulting and Sleep q's

[shynook11]

MOULT Q: How often do Ekkies moult and how can I tell when this process is occurring (other than feather loss) and how long does it last? Anything special I should do during this time like leave her alone?

SLEEP Q: What time does your Ekkie go to sleep? We're in FL and have her cage in the screened patio during the day for light, can she sleep covered outside in warmer weather? She is safe from predators.

 

[Bobby34231]

Most all Parrots molt 1 to 2 times a year, when molting you will see the feather loss...as well as new feather growth, small white shafts containing the new feathers, if your ekkie will allow you to you can actually help in the process by gently squeezing them till they fall apart, the key is to take it slow and easy, you can also give her a daily shower, that will help alleviate some of the itching and discomfort, covering the cage partially while molting might also help with a feeling of safety, a towel or sheet covering the back and sides would be great, you should also increase protien foods at this time, cooked chicken, cooked beans, hard boiled egg, sprouts, ect.

as for sleep, 12+ hours of uninterupted sleep is important, I just follow the solar cycle, which will be even easier if you have your ekkie outside.....basiclly sun up to sun down, if the temps will be below 50 I'd bring her in, hope that helps