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My dove is losing many feathers, but seems healthy. Is it molting?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Female

I have a ring necked dove that has been losing a lot of feathers for a while. They’re complete feathers, and she has pin feathers coming in again. She eats normal and is drinking water. Her eyes and nose are clear and so is her vent. Poop also looks normal. But there’s ALOT of feathers and it’s been like that for a while. Is she molting or is there something else going on?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 22nd, 2020

If she is behaving normally otherwise, then she is likely molting. Continue to monitor for lethargy, loss of appetite or loose droppings. Make sure she continues to eat and drink normally. Keep her as stress free as possible.

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on April 8th, 2018

    It does sound as if your dove isn't feeling well and would be best to bring her to a local avian vet for an exam to see what is going on. Until you can get to the vet, moving her to a warm hospital cage away from other birds and with easy access to food and water may help her to relax some until she can be seen.

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