Bald Cardinal: Feather Mites or Molting?

A female cardinal with a completely bald head likely has feather mites or is undergoing an abnormal molt. See “The Case of Bald Birds” for details. It’s usually temporary; feathers regrow after molt or mite treatment.

What to Do

• Keep feeders clean to reduce mite spread.
• Provide high-quality seed for feather regeneration.
• Don’t attempt capture—stress worsens condition.

Most birds recover on their own.

Bald-headed cardinal—likely feather mites or molt issue.