26/04/2024
Eclectus Molts including Mojo Molt
Eclectus’s molt is slightly different from other species and can also suffer from a severe molt known as the Mojo Molt which has owners scared and worried the first time they see it. We will discuss the Mojo Molt after, but first, let’s talk about the normal molt of this species.
Eclectus molt their head and body feathers all year round, molting their larger wing and tail feathers about twice a year, these feathers don’t usually molt until about the age of one.
Molts can be uncomfortable for any bird, all those new pin feathers coming through and some birds may gain appetite or lose appetite but in general, the Eclectus should not become stressed or have a mood change during this time, though some can become moody, their bodies are working overtime to produce new feathers It is a natural part of their life.
Bathing is essential during this time, though it should be part of their routine in any case, also a diluted aloe spray can help soothe the skin and prevent it from drying out. Regular outdoor light or full spectrum lighting is also of great benefit as it helps provide vitamin D3 which is vital for this species.
THE MOJO MOLT
This molt was named after the first Eclectus that was noted to experience this type of molt, a very heavy molt to the face, head, and neck and balding.
If you have never experienced this or heard of this type of molt it can be very worrying and scary. You may think your bird is plucking or is ill, has mites or has an infection. If you are ever worried please see you avian vet just to rule out any illness.
Some Mojo Molts can be very extreme where as others can be mild.
Mojo Molts occur in adult males and should not occur in birds under the age of two years, They can happen randomly, you may be lucky and never see this type of molt, some may experience it only once whereas others can experience it every year or every other year.
Not much is really understood about this type of molt and it can go on over several months.
It is very unusual for a hen to experience this type of molt, though they can have a heavy molt.
To help your bird through this they need a good sleep pattern, recommended ten hours a night, as it takes a lot of energy to replace those feathers. You may find your bird takes extra naps throughout the day as well
spritze helps to soothe and keep the skin from drying out.
Lots of extra love as this is a very stressful time for them, they feel itchy and not quite right, Remember Eclectus are sensitive souls at heart.
If you choose to give extra supplements please check with your avian vet first. Extra supplements can help but you don’t want to overdose as this can do harm also.
Sunlight of an avian lamp is beneficial for feather growth and well-being providing them with much-needed vitamin D3.
The most important is a good healthy diet.