Scruffy bullfinch

Sydmead · #1 (**permalink**) 26-04-2010, 09:00 AM

I was very concerned when one of the several bullfinches which visit my bird feeding station arrived with the most incredibly "ruffled feathers". This did not affect its' ability to fly, but I wondered whether it had some terrible mite infestation, or something similar. I think it was one of the parents of a brood which had started visiting, and looking like little jewels!! Was this just the start of a moult? Or was it a disease of some kind. Can anyone enlighten me please? (I have uploaded an image to the Gallery.)

astarsdad · #2 (**permalink**) 26-04-2010, 11:04 AM

Hi,
Can't find your image. Had it just been bathing?
Terry

Sydmead · #3 (**permalink**) 27-04-2010, 09:18 AM

I have tried to upload the image to the Gallery. I am new to this site and find the process rather complicated! The image loaded was called "Scruffy", but the title I gave it for the Gallery was "Bullfinch with ruffled feathers". I have tried again - perhaps you can now find it. If so, I feel sure you will agreed that the problem was not caused simply by "Bathing"!! John

astarsdad · #4 (**permalink**) 27-04-2010, 11:31 AM

Hi, Still having no luck finding your image. If you click on the Gallery image it will open up your image, copy and paste the address to a 'thread page' I have put an example further down. Good luck
Terry

Wheatear - Oenanthe oenanthe (female) - Wildlife Photography

Cowgirl · #5 (**permalink**) 28-04-2010, 12:11 PM

One thing I've noticed when uploading images, is that whenever I try to upload an image in the middle of typing a reply, it says it's successful but, when I look for it to click on to add it to my post, it's vanished, this got v frustrating 'til I tried another approach.

Solution, upload your image before you go into the "Reply to thread box"! No problems since.

Jaeviatrix · #6 (**permalink**) 28-04-2010, 02:08 PM

Is this it?

SCRUFFY_1 - Wild About Britain Pics

Click on one of the photos of the nightingale in the "if not then what" thread, it's about 6 photos to the left. Spotted it earlier and thought this'd be the thread about it.

We have a robin in a very scruffy condition here too. I've no idea when they moult.

slimrbp · #7 (**permalink**) 28-04-2010, 02:43 PM

Blimey that is very scruffy, a number of birds have a post nuptial moult.
Not sure about Bullfinches though.

astarsdad · #8 (**permalink**) 28-04-2010, 06:29 PM

Hi again,
I am no expert but that looks far worse than moulting. It is possible that the bird has parastic problems and is engaging in 'feather plucking' in an effort to relieve its discomfort.
Terry