Do birds get sick (or act sick) when they are molting?
You do though however, have to know the difference between molting and plucking. Plucking is where they literally pull out their feathers themselves. Molting is not the same as a sick bird. Signs of a sick bird are too many to list…but to get you started…check the poop, (Droppings)…are they runny, funny green color, do they smell or have a funny odor. How is the eating habits changed, sleeping habits… Does he or she still sleep with one leg up=signs of a healthy bird], do they still play around with toys, are they getting enough water, …. Also pay attention to whether you have a sick parrot or a sleepy parrot–both will sit fluffed up, eyes closed, usually perching on one foot. (Note: sometimes, if a bird is sick, it will sleep on both feet.) The sleepy bird will awake immediately if startled and will respond with bright eyes and curiosity. The sick parrot will be unsteady on its perch, will shiver and appear lethargic. Even the slightest sign of illness is a huge red flag in
I’ve had parrots for almost 20 years and never noticed any change when they are molting. It’s not like all their feathers fall off at once, it’s a gradual process of replacement. Otherwise, in the wild, they would be unable to fly and would be captured and eaten by predators. If all your bird’s feathers are falling out at once and it appears sick, get it to a certified avian vet right away.
