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Is it painful to the chick to hold while feathering?

Discussion in 'Raising Baby Chicks' started by clarkestep, Jun 24, 2008.

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  1. Jun 24, 2008 #1
    clarkestep

    clarkestep Songster

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    A friend of mine told me that it is painful for a bird to be held while it is feathering. She said the feathers are very stiff and when we hold the bird it pokes the feathers into their flesh like needles. Has anyone heard this? I don't want to hurt me babies!

    JC
     
  2. Jun 24, 2008 #2
    silkiechicken

    silkiechicken Staff PhD Premium Member

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    Nah, it will be fine. Just be gentle and don't break the pin feathers.
     
  3. Jun 24, 2008 #3
    rooster-red

    rooster-red Here comes the Rooster

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    Never heard of this.
     
  4. Jun 24, 2008 #4
    Sparrow

    Sparrow Songster

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    I know that when my parrots are molting, it makes them extremely irritable when you try to touch them. I think it at least feels creepy to them.

    I've had a few chicks squeal when I've had to grab them during the feathering process. I try not to do that, but I have had to before and they certainly don't seem to like it. In case it does hurt, just try to handle them gently during that time, and try not to bump the larger pin feathers.
     

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