molting question

Question
my daughter's parakeet seems to be molting for the first time.  We've noticed that it's normally white face has grayish-brown patches.  Should we be concerned or is this just part of molting?  Thanks,
                             Mark Maida

Answer
Hi, Mark,

If the bird is molting for the first time, it is likely a young bird that has not yet feathered out with its adult coloration.  With the first 2 molts (at about 6 months and again at 12 months), adult coloration is coming through, which is likely what is happening with your daughter's bird.  Most keets have some type of markings on their faces like you describe, depending on the overall coloration of the bird.

Chrys