As summer fades into autumn, many of our garden birds begin renewing their plumage, a process that demands a surprising amount of energy and nutrients. With careful feeding, you can support birds through this sensitive period, helping them emerge with strong, vibrant feathers.
Why Bird Feather Health Matters in Autumn
Moulting is a physically and mentally stressful time for birds. Replacing feathers requires high-quality protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. In fact, feathers themselves are made of around 90% protein, mostly keratin, so feeding a high-protein diet is essential. As one source puts it, moulting birds have an elevated metabolism and are more vulnerable to stress, making quality nutrition crucial.
Nutrients That Make a Difference
Here are the key nutrients that support feathers during moult:
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Protein & Amino Acids (especially methionine, lysine, tryptophan): The building blocks of feather keratin. Deficiencies can lead to stress bars or poor feather pigmentation.
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Essential Fats (Omega-3 & Omega-6): Provide energy for feather development and help maintain skin and feather condition.
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Biotin (Vitamin B7): Boosts keratin production, assisting feather follicle growth.
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Zinc and Iron: Zinc supports feather repair and oil gland health; iron supports blood flow to growing feathers.
How Walter Products Supports Feather Health
Here’s how we’ve tailored our range to meet those nutritional needs during moult:
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Calci Worms: Packed with both protein and calcium, they support both feather growth and overall condition. The high calcium content also helps support bone and beak health.
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Mealworms: A classic high-protein treat, popular across a wide range of garden birds. Their rich protein and fat content help fuel birds through the energetically costly moult.
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Combination Treats: Offering both mealworms and calci worms in one blend gives a balanced mix of protein, calcium, and healthy fats, perfect during times of intense feather development.
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Our Fat Balls and Peanuts: Rich in energy, these are helpful for sustaining endurance. Our fat balls are net-free to keep feeding safe and eco-friendly.
Easy Tips to Feed During Moult
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Offer a mix of Calci Worms and Mealworms in a shallow dish or tray.
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Provide fat balls or peanuts nearby for energy boosts between protein snacks.
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Rehydrate dried insects by soaking briefly in warm water to make them extra soft and nourishing.
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Keep feeders near resting places (like hedges) so tired birds can feed safely and quietly.
Small Steps, Beautiful Results
By offering the right mix of nutrients, you can help birds complete their moult with strong, healthy feathers. A little thought makes a big difference, after all, you’re helping them transition into their most beautiful plumage yet.
If you'd like help choosing the right products for your garden's feathered visitors, just let me know, I'm happy to help craft a feeding plan that fits your local birds and season.
