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10/26/06

Hi,

I didn't read all the various messages relating to the tailess Chickadee, but I just want to say something about regrowing feathers.

If I recall my readings corectly (I used to have a Peach-faced Lovebird in Arizona), when feathers are pulled out by the roots, they regrow right away; but when they are clipped, etc., then you have to wait for the next molt for feathers to regrow. That could be a clew as to what happened to this individual.

Phil Hotlen
Bellingham, WA
-------------- Original message ----------------------
From: Wendy John <wendy.john at comcast.net>
> We observed the formerly tailless black-capped chickadee this
> afternoon after its absence from the feeder for several days. At this
> time, it sports a tail about 1/2 inch long. For those who may have
> been worrying about this bird, and I know I was, I wanted to say that
> whatever the cause of the missing tail, the bird now seems to be on
> the way to a normal state of affairs. Thanks to all who commented on
> my query as to the reason for the missing tail.
>
> Incidentally, we noticed a tailless golden-crowned sparrow a few days
> ago at Magnuson Park!
>
> Wendy John
> wendy.john at comcast.net
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