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When can I clip the wings of an African Grey and help with Bandit2007-11-24 17:26:17

The bird is only 12 weeks old, we aquired it 4 days ago. We are able to handle it and it loves to be stroked, wanting attention and we still have all our fingers. The trouble is when we open the cage it is not long before it goes around the room like a 747 demolishing everything it comes into contact with. We have another grey called Smokey and a b/g macaw called Bandit both about 7 years old and aquired 2 years ago, they are quite contented to stay in or sit on their cages, and we would like the same from Josie. Bandit has a big beak and loves us both favouring his mum by far, but we have never had the courage to handle him though he seems to want it. ANY SUGGESTIONS ?

Answers:

Do not clip his wings yet. It is very important for a baby Grey to learn how to fly and land properly, and to develop strength and agility. They also become more confident. They may never learn to fly or land properly when they are older. When he has become an accomplished flyer, you can then have his wings trimmed by an experienced vet or bird groomer. Only trim one or two feathers on each wing at a time, so he can adjust to the difference and learn how to safely land. NEVER clip just one wing! It throws the bird off balance and can lead to serious injury upon landing!

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Well, I normally clip one wing for my birds, it throws them off balance and they can't fly at all.however, if they fall that one wing will help make the landing a bit more soft. You can clip wings at anytime, just make sure you know where the blood vessels are.if you get too close you'll hit one and it'll start bleeding. Just clip the feathers about a centimeter or so away from the vessel and that should work.

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As far as the wing clipping is concerned I would ask an expert vet !