The great blue herons at Gulf Islands National Seashore (and all along the Gulf Coast) are currently in their molting season, causing them to appear scraggly. Molting is the process where birds shed old feathers to grow new ones.

Molting season typically occurs from July to early August. While some birds molt all year, many undergo major molts between breeding and migration seasons. During this time, birds may also change from vibrant breeding colors to less colorful non-breeding patterns.

People should not pick up bird feathers due to legal protections. According to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), possessing feathers or parts of native North American birds without a permit is prohibited. The MBTA protects wild birds from being harmed by collectors or commercial traders. This law applies to all feathers, even those found on the ground. 

Exceptions exist for legally-hunted waterfowl and Native American cultural uses. Educational or research use of bird feathers requires permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and state agencies.

For more details, visit the Gulf Islands National Seashore website or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s FAQ page.