FINCHforum

I have hen whose feathers are all ruffled up and fluffy and is having a hard time flying. She was fine yesterday. I thought she is sick and I was about to catch her and put her in a hospital cage and give her the heat treatment. Then I did some reading and I found some people attributing this to molting. I have no clue about molting. So can someone tell me what is it, why it happens and how frequent, and is it something I should be worried about. Also does this condition cause the birds to be lazy, sleepy and fluffed up?

Thanks

I think if you read the Finch Information Center - linked on the left side of your screen - they should have specific information on moulting.

It typically happens once a year and affects some birds harder than others. It can be a light and easy moult or it can be a heavy and difficult moult for the bird.

If your bird is fluffed and sleeping - I would put it in a hospital cage and give it extra heat for a minimum start.