Hi Dawn, I've noticed this phenomenon quite a bit with my backyard birds (only cardinals, so far). Some appear more completely bald while others are missing only a few head feathers. It seems experts are somewhat uncertain about a definite cause, but there are several thoughts on it. Here's a link with a few theories and it also has some additional links to other sites on the topic. http://www.birdersworld.com/brd/default.aspx?c=a&id=512 Linda ---------------------------------------- From: "Dawn" <dawn.office@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2008 9:23 AM To: "Birdky" <birdky@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> Subject: [birdky] Northern Cardinal with head molt? Morning, Since I am somewhat new to birding, I can identify some breeds, or species easily enough, but keep my book handy and a piece of paper to make notes. About 3 weeks ago I notice a "different" coloring on one of the cardinals. I have a pair that were coming daily, very pretty they were. I then noticed in the evening that a second male was showing up, it was a cardinal, but his coloring was way off. From a distance it looked like his black masking had taken over his whole head, and the head appeared "rounded". When ever I attempted to get a better look or get the camera he would take off, guess he is shy. I have been looking all week for a possible answer, while spending more time at the window watching for him. Well last night I was finally able to actually observe him and get my answers, but now I have even more questions. This poor boy is bald! Not one feather on his head, no crest, nothing that I could see. If he wasn't 6in in length, bright red and eatting the safflower seeds in my feeders I would think he was a new mini vulture. When I finally figured out that he had no feathers I wanted to run out, pick him up and tell him he was still beautiful. So, have I never seen this before because I was not paying attention, or is it a common thing? I looked up molting, but could find no answer. I know it is a good chance it is some kind of parasite as well. Thank you, Dawn D. Louisville, Ky