4 Month Molting?

[Kumiko]

Kiwi is 3 months old, about to hit 4 months. What should I aspect on his molting process? What does it look like?

What should I give him to make this experience less stressful for him?

Thanks! :D

[AndreaFahy]

Birds need: (and these will aid in a quicker molt)

Protein (beans)
lots of bathing to loosen the feather sheething
Full spectrum lighting (either from the sun not filtered through glass or use lie the AvianSun UVA / UVB kit)
A mate to preen them :)

[AndreaFahy]

The new AvianSun™ Deluxe Floor Lamp from Zoo Med allows bird keepers to provide their birds with true full spectrum light, including UVB and UVA, just like they get in nature! This floor lamp is designed for use with Zoo Med’s new AvianSun™ 5.0 UVB Compact Fluorescent Lamp (Item # AS-C5). This unique lighting arrangement will provide birds with safe levels of beneficial UVB and UVA for physical and psychological health. UVB enables birds to synthesize vitamin D3 for proper calcium metabolism which is necessary for normal growth, maintenance of strong bones, and egg production. UVA is visible to birds, enabling them to recognize mates, locate food, and identify different species. Without UVA, birds are essentially colorblind! The floor lamp is fully adjustable, and includes a built in reflector for maximum light output.

Another important benefit of full spectrum lighting is the effect it has on the glandular system; the Thyroid Gland controls how and when the other glands function and for it to function properly, it needs to be stimulated by normal photo periods of full-spectrum light. The Hypothalamus is involved in proper feather development and skin. The Pineal Gland controls the cyclical processes such as molting and the reproductive cycle.

[Kumiko]

What type of beans??

[AndreaFahy]

garbonzo, aduki, kidney, lentil, etc. I soak for 24 hours (rinse once or twice) and then cook for 2-4 hours. There are variations in cooking beans though. I like to just use a 13 bean soup mix. Bob's Mill makes a nice one that we use and carry. A lot of grocery stores may have it.

[Pado]

Great tip: 13 bean soup mix :)
– I’ll have to try that –

[Alyse]

How long does a molt usually last? Allie's just starting hers