Wing Clipping

Birds have a right to flight. After all, it is their natural instinct to fly. But what happens when flying creates safety issues for your feathered friend? Many parrot parents consider clipping, trimming back the bird's wing feathers to limit flight capabilities, a great alternative. However there are those who would argue that clipping is just as dangerous, if not more so, than allowing your bird full flight. So which choice is right for you?

When properly executed, clipping a bird's wings should allow them to glide gracefully downward, but prevent them from achieving any lift. Limiting their flight in this manner prevents many common occurrences, such as flying into or out of windows and doors. Common household hazards, such as toilet bowls, open containers of water, and stoves can prove disastrous for your parrot if they are not properly supervised. Wing clipping is more convenient and reassuring to those busy folks who can't keep a constant eye on their parrot. It also makes it more convenient to tame or train your bird.

But how far are we willing to go for our own convenience? Birds are entitled to flight. It is what they do in their natural environment. Granted, a normal household is not reminiscent of their natural habitat, but this does not curb the bird's urge to fly. Flight is also a bird's primary means to exercise. Regular exercise is essential to your parrot's health and happiness. It strengthens the muscles and lungs and prevents boredom. If you have other pets inside your home, clipping presents a different kind of safety issue. Your bird will have no escape if it ends up on the floor and your other pet suddenly decides that it looks tempting.

I am personally of the opinion that birds should not be clipped for our own selfish reasons. Yes, there are many things within any normal household that could cause your bird harm, but nothing that can't be curtailed with proper supervision. It is understandable that you are not able to watch your bird at all times. After all, we have many other demands on our time. But it's as simple as this: don't let him or her out of their cage when you know that you will not be able to safeguard them. My bird was clipped when I first obtained him, and he constantly "crashed" into the floor or other objects, because he did not have full control. It was painful to watch. It was for this reason that I decided to let his feathers grow back in, and I have not clipped him since. It's been a happy, accident-free two years since that decision, and I haven't regretted it for a moment.

If you do decide to have your bird clipped, please do your research beforehand. Keep in mind that wing clipping procedures do not always go as planned. There have been many cases where the bird was not properly clipped, resulting is serious injury. Talk with your veterinarian, and ask him/her to explain to you their wing clipping procedure, what could go wrong, and what the results should be of a successful clip. There are many internet resources on proper wing clipping procedure, so read up on it. Be informed before you walk into that vet's office. Above all, never have your bird clipped at a pet store. Don't trust the safety of your bird to anyone other than a trained professional. You can be sure that a veterinarian has had proper training in animal care... can you say the same for a pet store employee?

Similarly, be wary if you decide to allow your bird full flight. You must be willing to be right there, at all times, keeping a close watch on your parrot. Be absolutely certain that all doors and windows are closed, and that any reflective surfaces are covered (windows, glass doors, mirrors, etc.). Close your toilet lids and be sure that there is no standing water that is more than an inch or so deep. Be sure all kitchen appliances, heaters, and fans are off. If you have house plants, check to make certain that none of them are poisonous or toxic to your bird. If they are, be sure to cover them, place them outside, or place them in a room with a closed door.

This will always be a controversial issue. There are benefits and disadvantages to both options. Either way, just be careful. Birds, when left to their own devices, will always find a way to get themselves into trouble. You have to be right there to pull them out. Be a responsible parrot parent-your bird's safety depends on you.