waxy buildup around feathers?

[Ravishaw]

My RIRs look a bit scraggly around their necks and heads. I picked up one yesterday and she had rings of wax around her head feathers. I tugged some of them off, didn't seem to hurt her.

What are these wax rings?

 

[Imp]

Quote:
They protect the new feathers as they grow out. They will fall off on their own.

Imp