The process of feather replacement in Northern Cardinals, a natural avian phenomenon, typically occurs annually. This shedding and regrowth of plumage is essential for maintaining flight capability, insulation, and display coloration.
Understanding the timing of this event is crucial for bird enthusiasts, ornithologists, and wildlife rehabilitators. Knowledge of the molting season assists in providing appropriate care for cardinals, monitoring population health, and interpreting observed changes in bird behavior and appearance. Moreover, documentation of this cycle contributes to broader ecological understanding.
