Ask Lafeber

Molting

What percentage of time do feathers not grow back? Do you have to wait for next molt for re-growth?

Hi Trish,

Once a feather has been molted or pulled out completely, the new feather will start to develop. Depending on the type of feather, it may take a week or two to emerge, and then it takes time to fishing growing. As an example, a long tail or wing feather takes much longer to grow in than a small body feather. A damaged feather that is still connected to the follicle will not grow back until the next molt unless it somehow falls out or is pulled out. The exception can happen with some birds with Feather Destruction Behavior. They can do permanent damage to the feather follicles, preventing any regrowth.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda