Old World parrots are known to produce a powdery substance called powder down feathers. This is one of the key reasons why they are considered dusty compared to New World parrots. Powder down feathers are unique to certain avian species, including parrots, and are primarily found in Old World parrots originating from Africa, Asia, and Australia.
The powder down feathers in Old World parrots have a special structure that sets them apart from regular feathers. These feathers have keratin sheaths that surround the emerging feather and gradually break down into a fine powder. This powder is then dispersed into the air and can settle on surfaces, making the environment appear dusty.
The purpose of powder down feathers is still not fully understood, but it is believed that they serve several functions. One function is insulation, as the powder helps to trap air and keep the bird warm. Additionally, the powder may also provide some level of waterproofing, protecting the bird’s feathers from becoming waterlogged.
The powdery substance produced by Old World parrots is different from the granular dander produced by New World parrots. Dander is the dead skin cells and other particles that are shed from the bird’s body. While both powder and dander can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, the fine nature of powder down feathers makes it more pervasive in the home and air space.
It is important to note that not all Old World parrots produce powder down feathers. Species such as African Grey Parrots and Cockatoos are well-known for their powdery appearance, while others like Amazon Parrots and Macaws do not have powder down feathers. Therefore, the dusty nature of Old World parrots is not universal among all species.
In my personal experience, I have owned an African Grey Parrot, which is an Old World species known for its powder down feathers. Despite regular cleaning and maintenance, I noticed that my home tended to accumulate a fine layer of dust due to the powdery substance produced by my parrot. This required more frequent dusting and cleaning compared to when I had New World parrots as pets.
The dusty nature of Old World parrots can be attributed to the production of powder down feathers. These feathers have keratin sheaths that break down into a fine powder, which is more pervasive in the home and air space compared to the granular dander produced by New World parrots. The purpose of powder down feathers is still not fully understood, but they are believed to serve insulation and waterproofing functions. However, it is important to note that not all Old World parrots produce powder down feathers, and the dusty nature can vary among different species.