What Is Molting?
Are you wondering why your lovebird looks a little different lately? It could be that they are molting! Molting is a process in birds in which their old feathers are replaced by new ones. This happens twice a year or more, depending on their age and the weather. Molting most commonly occurs when the weather changes.
Symptoms of Molting in Lovebirds
Your lovebird may seem a bit grumpy and out of sorts during this process, and it's best to give them some extra TLC during this time. A lovebird's personality changes when he/she undergoes molting. Here are the most common symptoms that your pet will display:
New feather "roots" on face and head
Feather loss
Lot of preening (grooming of feathers)
Bird dust is blown (while preening or taking a bath)
Tiredness
Drowsiness
Loss of appetite
Vigorous scratching
Irritability
What to Do if Your Lovebird Molts?
It is important to understand that they will remain very moody and stubborn during this period. Be loving towards your pet and treat them with kindness and patience. Imagine that you itch yourself day and night and feel irritated and lost from within for maybe a month or more. This is what lovebirds face during a molt. They cannot tell you how they feel, but you have to understand their state and try to help them feel better and less irritated. I will now discuss some ways in which you can help your pet lovebird.
Give Your Lovebird a Bath
A bath will surely put your pet in a good mood and help him/her by reducing the itch. So, it is imperative that a bath is provided and that your pet is clean. Sometimes, pets don't want to bathe. So, what should be done in that case?
Act as if you are enjoying bathing by splashing your fingers in the bowl and making "excited" sounds. You can also try spray bathing your lovebirds. Take a spray bottle and fill it with warm water. Spray it slowly on your pet's body. Your pet may run around in the cage for a minute, but he/she will settle down and enjoy the spray bath.
Give Your Pet Scratches
Molting induces a lot of itching in lovebirds. They will be seen scratching their heads and preening (cleaning their feathers) themselves for long periods of time. If your pet allows you to touch him/her, you can slowly scratch their heads and beak. Your bird will surely love this. It will also help your bird feel less itchy and increase your bond with them.
If your bird wants to be scratched, he/she will lay their head and rub it against your finger. Please do remember to scratch their heads softly as the developing feathers, when scratched accidentally, cause pain.
Molting is just another part of their natural cycle. Although it may seem like a stressful time for your pet, with the right amount of care and patience, it can be a wonderful opportunity to watch your lovebird transform into a healthier and happier version of themselves. So don't be too worried if your lovebird is going through a molting period, it's just a sign that they are growing and thriving.
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