upatsix.com - Your Source For Pet Bird Information

Marlie has polyuria every time she molts. I still worry every time it happens, but I should be used to it by now. She has lost 10 grams of weight in the last week (96 now) so she is not underweight, (prob a little overweight before) but that does concern me. She is getting her regular pellets, plus powdered good bacteria in the pellets, and I just started supplementing with sweet potato and some broccoli. Her behavior (other than sleeping a little more) is completely normal. Should I be concerned about the weight loss? She seems to be eating fine.

Since this is her usual pattern and she's eating and playing normally, I would not worry if she were mine. As you realize, her new weight is probably healthier for her. Some of my birds have a much more difficult time with molting than others do. I observe carefully and make notes so that next time I recognize it as a pattern, just as you've done. Of course, I often rushed them each to the vet for bloodwork before having the good sense to make notes

Mine are doing that as well. Feathers are everywhere. My females are more needy than ever wanting me to scratch their itchy heads and groom those feathers.

I'm so glad to hear your females are 'needy' too!

In four years, and about 8 moults, I've not seen my single female, Bailey, require so-o-o much attention from me. She'll beak-bump my cheek at least 10 times in a day looking for a nice little neck scratch. And absolutely LOVES it, when I gently blow on her pin feathers.

Poor little thing must be itchy as all 'get out'! ... and feathers every-where. Does a little 'tiel really have over 2 million feathers?? 'cuz it sure seems that way!

Thanx
Pete