Molting is a natural and necessary biological process for birds, involving the shedding of old feathers and the growth of new ones. All birds undergo molting at various times throughout their lives. For birds, it is fundamental for their survival and well-being. Molting allows birds to maintain healthy plumage, which is essential for flight, insulation, and protection from the elements.
Cardinal Molting Cycles
Northern Cardinals typically undergo one complete molt annually, usually in late summer or early autumn. This strategic timing occurs after the demanding breeding season has concluded and before the onset of colder weather. Molting during this period ensures that cardinals are not simultaneously expending energy on raising young and growing new feathers, nor are they vulnerable during the harshest parts of winter. The entire process of losing and regrowing feathers can take several weeks, often lasting up to 12 weeks.
Molting patterns can vary among individual birds and even from year to year. While most birds molt gradually, replacing feathers a few at a time to maintain flight capability, cardinals can sometimes lose all their head feathers simultaneously, leading to a “bald” appearance. Juvenile cardinals undergo an initial partial molt in the fall. This early molt replaces their fluffy juvenile plumage with feathers that resemble adult coloring, though full adult plumage may not appear until their first winter.
The Purpose of Feather Replacement
Feathers are complex structures made of keratin, and once fully grown, they are not living tissue. This means that unlike skin, feathers cannot repair themselves if damaged. Over time, feathers experience significant wear and tear from daily activities like flying, preening, and exposure to sunlight and weather. This wear can lead to fraying, fading, and reduced efficiency in their functions.
Molting serves to replace these worn or damaged feathers with fresh, new ones. New feathers restore the bird’s ability to fly efficiently, provide proper insulation, and maintain waterproofing. The process also helps to renew the vibrant colors of their plumage, which can be important for communication, camouflage, and attracting mates. By regularly replacing their feathers, cardinals ensure their continued health and ability to thrive in their environment.
Appearance and Support During Molt
During molting, cardinals can look disheveled, patchy, or even “bald,” particularly around the head. This appearance, especially the complete loss of head feathers, is a normal part of the molting process and not a sign of illness. The new feathers often emerge wrapped in keratin sheaths, giving them a “spiky” or “pin feather” look before fully unfurling. This temporary appearance resolves within a few weeks as the new feathers grow in.
Molting is an energy-intensive process, requiring significant nutritional resources for new feather growth. Providing support to molting cardinals can be beneficial. Ensuring a consistent supply of fresh, clean water is helpful for both drinking and bathing, aiding in keeping newly emerging feathers clean and healthy. Offering high-protein food sources, such as black oil sunflower seeds, suet, or mealworms, can provide the extra energy and nutrients needed for robust feather development. Maintaining clean feeders and bird baths also helps prevent the spread of disease, which is important when birds may be more vulnerable.