During the moult, how much additional body weight should a bird be fed?

During the moult, it is essential for birds to receive adequate nutrition to support the significant physical changes they go through, such as growing new feathers. Feeding them up to 20% more than their regular body weight is often recommended because the process of feather production requires substantial energy and resources. As birds expend energy to shed old feathers and create new ones, they can benefit from the extra nutrition to maintain their health and ensure the successful growth of strong and healthy plumage. This increase in feeding helps to accommodate the metabolic demands during the moult, allowing for better overall recovery and preparation for future activities, such as hunting or migration.

While smaller increases in food intake may be suitable in other contexts, the 20% increase specifically addresses the heightened nutritional needs associated with the moult. This level of care helps falconers ensure that their birds are performing optimally during this critical time.