Help with Pin Feathers

[Kiwi's_Mom]

Hi everyone,

I have a 6 and a half month old green cheeked conure named Kiwi. Lately, I've noticed what I think are pin feathers on her face, neck and one prominent one on the back of her neck. I've googled it and seen some pictures so I'm pretty sure that's what it is. Kiwi's behavior does not seem to be affected. I don't know anything about pin feathers, although I did google the subject. I understand its due to molting. Is this something that is supposed to happen to a bird at a young age? From what I understand the pin feather turns into a new feather? Is this something that's not preferred? Is there anything I can do to reverse it? I just don't want Kiwi to be in any pain due to it. I've read on some sites that if you touch the pin feathers it can hurt.
Any advice is appreciated!

Sincerely,
Kiwi's Mom

[marie83]

What Kiwi is going through is completely normal and indeed necessary. Moults will occur at least once per year and will vary as to how many feathers are lost and the period of time they last.

The pin feather is basically a sheath which allows the new feather to grow safely inside. When the feather matures the shealth will start to break apart and is no longer painful as the blood supply has gone.

You can help your bird through this process by feeding a little bit extra protien, offering lots of baths to help soften the pins and by helping to remove the pins once they are ready by pinching them gently between your fingers, which is kind of hard on a bird as small as a green cheek (dont pull on them). Other than that its just a matter of waiting it out and being more careful when handling Kiwi.

[Kiwi's_Mom]

Thanks for explaining and clearing that up! Much appreciated

[cml]

Stitch loves to have his pin feathers scratched, I think they itch somewhat, despite his frequent showers.