Have you seen any feathers on the ground lately?

Its molting season for many of the birds that visit our yards. Molting is the process of losing old feathers and growing fresh replacements.

It’s not unusual to find a feather or two this time of year. Wing and tail feathers are often the easiest to find due to their length. Can you see the newest, half-grown feathers on the wing of the White-breasted Nuthatch pictured above? Look closely.

Molting is easier to see in birds like vultures and hawks as they soar overhead. Look for short or missing feathers on each wing or tail.