#FreakyFriday

Posted On: Apr 02nd, 2022

Have you ever noticed in pictures of wild parrots that their feathers look almost as pristine as those that live under human care? How can this be if they are exposed to untold germs and elements?  We hope to answer that question for you. Parrot feathers contain antibacterial pigments, called Psittacofulvins, a bacteria-resistant pigment that only parrots (called psittacines) are known to produce and give the birds' feathers their red, yellow, and green coloration. Psittacofulvins protect their plumage from degradation!

Photo: Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo