When you think of any bird one of the first things you will think of is feathers! Anyone that has owned a parakeet will be able to attest to the vast amount of feathers a parakeet has! Feathers outside the cage, feathers inside the cage, feathers in rooms that your parakeet hasn't been in...feathers everywhere! Whilst this can cause a little bit of a mess sometimes, feathers are actually a very important part of your parakeet's make up. A large loss of feathers may be a sign of disease, illness or some other issue that may be afflicting your feathered friend. Here are a few facts about Parakeet feathers you may not know about!
Illness Diagnosis
Molting and feather loss isn't something to be too worried about as this is a natural part of bird life. When your budgie preens, grooms and removes his or her own feathers this is all part of being a bird! Sometimes however feather loss can suggest illness or disease. Bald patches and massive feather loss are a good sign that something may not be quite right.
French Molt, caused by a virus, will cause the feathers to fall out and they will actually not grow back again. Whilst not all of your parakeets feathers will be affected by French molt the feathers used for balance and flying are usually affected which prevents the bird from flying. If your bird shares a cage and you suspect French molt it is best to separate the patient from the rest of the gang.
Other possible feather issues can include spiky feathers or unnatural lying feathers which can also be a sign that there is illness or disease with the parakeet. If you suspect your parakeet is unwell always consult your local vet!
Feathers for Flying
Without feathers the parakeet wouldn't be aerodynamic and wouldn't be able to fly! The parakeet's longer feathers on their wings and backsides allow them to balance and stay airborne for longer periods of time. Without feathers budgies would be funny little grown dwelling animals!
Natural Protection
In the wild Australian bush there are many different elements! From larger animals to storms and intense weather parakeets feathers ensure they have protection in all climates and in all types of weather. Without feathers the parakeet may not be able to survive the harsh cold winter conditions and the bombardment of hail and rain.
Feathers are water resistant due to a protective oil produced in the parakeets body, this prevents parakeets from becoming soaked in heavy rains, this also prevents them from being weighed down by water which can allow them to fly away from larger predators during storms. In the wild the rain doesn't stop bigger animals from hunting.
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