Beak and Nail Trimming | Moulting | Bathing

Beak and Nail Trimming

In the wild, birds naturally trim their nails and beaks through climbing and chewing activity. For birds kept in captivity it is possible for owners or vets to do this for the bird.

To trim the nails, a sharp pair of nail scissors or dog scissor style nail clippers can be used depending on the size of the bird. Only the pointed hook of the nail should be trimmed. In white nails this is easy to identify as the pink ‘quick' or the blood vessel of the nail sets the parameters. If this quick is accidentally cut, a clotting agent will need to be applied immediately. Please ask our staff for advice on how to use this.

To keep your bird's beak trimmed, provide it with suitable chewable objects such as branches, cuttle-fish and wooden toys. Otherwise it is best if your vet cuts the birds beak as the vet will have staff to restrain the bird and the suitable equipment or preparations to stem any bleeding.

Back To Menu

Moulting

Moulting is natural in birds and helps to maintain a birds plumage in good condition, not only for appearances, but also to maintain water proof coating and to maintain the birds flying ability. That is, old bedraggled feathers are replaced with streamlined ‘airworthy' ones.

Moulting will usually occur once a year, usually in spring or summer, but individual feather replacement may occur at any time of the year.

If however your bird is looking bald or untidy, if the feathers appear dirty or streaky or if the feathers appear malformed, please see a suitable bird Veterinarian.

Back To Menu

Bathing

Bathing keeps bird feathers free of dirt, is refreshing for the bird and aids their well being which is reflected through the lustre of their feathers.

Simply provide a birdbath filled half way with water (no detergent), in the bird's cage or give the bird a spray with a fine mist such as that from the hose.

It is advised to do this during the hotter parts of the day allowing plenty of time for the bird to dry.

Back To Menu