Newbie - Molt or Not?

[Aaralynn8075]

Hi friends!

We rescued a 19 year old harlequin macaw about 2 months ago. 2 days ago, we noticed he lost a long flight feather on 1 wing. Today he lost the same feather on the other wing. I do not see any pin feathers but I do see lots of the soft downy-like feathers on the underside of his wings. Does this sounds like normal molting or does this need a vet visit?

We are new parronts so just want to make sure he is happy and healthy!

Thanks!

 

[Macawdamia Nut]

Normal

 

[DonnaBudgie]

They say that they molt symmetrically- same feather on both sides at around the same time. It may take a few weeks before you see the new feathers starting to grow in. Just so ypu know while they are growing in they have a strong blood supply. If they break at this stage they can bleed profusely.

Your new bird is gorgeous!

 

[SailBoat]

As DonnaBudgie states large Parrots loose their wing and tail feathers symmetrically (balanced) as the one you photographed is likely a Secondary wing feather from the left side.

It is very important to remember that flight feathers require extensive energy requirements to provide and as a result this group of Parrots tend to mold wing and tail feathers year around. With body feathers they tend to mold prior to mating season as to have the best feathers to display themselves.

 

[DonnaBudgie]

Make sure your macaw has lots of nutritious food while feathers are developing. The quality of the new feathers will be better if all nutritional needs are met. If not, the feathers will be of poor quality. Large birds don't replace flight feathers and tail feathers more than about once a year.