Understanding Moult in Birds: A Guide to Feather Replacement

Moulted is a term used in ornithology to describe the process of shedding feathers, typically during the breeding season or at other specific times of the year. Birds will often moult to replace old, worn-out feathers with new ones, which can help improve their appearance, flying ability, and overall health.

There are different types of moults, including:

1. Primary moult: This occurs in young birds after they have fledged, and involves the replacement of their juvenile feathers with adult plumage.
2. Secondary moult: This occurs in adult birds, and involves the replacement of worn-out feathers with new ones.
3. Prebasic moult: This occurs before the breeding season, and involves the replacement of feathers on the head, neck, and body.
4. Postbreeding moult: This occurs after the breeding season, and involves the replacement of feathers that have been damaged or worn out during the breeding period.

Moult can be a stressful time for birds, as they may lose their ability to fly and be more vulnerable to predators while their feathers are growing back. However, it is an essential process for maintaining their health and appearance.