Clipped wings

[Miracle1980]

Today, I clipped both of my parakeet's wings. This was not only the first time clipping their wings, but the first time I have ever clipped any bird's wings. I used many guides I found on the internet, but mainly followed this one as I was most comfortable with the way of the cut. (Inside to outside instead of outside to inside)http://www.exoticpetvet.net/avian/clip.html In total, I ended up cutting 7 flight feathers off of each of the wings about 1/2 inch above the double feather area. The keet's can now fly in a straight line slowly descending to the ground. I would like to know if that is how they should fly and if I did it right. Also, there was no bleeding from any feathers.

[Monica]

Sounds like you clipped your budgies the 'traditional' way, or to say past the coverts (the small feathers above the long flight feathers). I don't really recommend this clip as it can leave sharp edges that can bother a birds body if they rub up against eachother... And doing the quill clip (cutting the feather near where it's growing out - diagram on this page http://www.birdsnways.com/wisdom/ww25ev.htm ) you shouldn't need to clip more than 4-6 feathers...

The cut that you did (assuming that the one I'm thinking about is the one that you did) is not the 'wrong' way, though I do believe that there is a 'better' way, so to speak. (not to sound harsh or anything).


As far as feathers bleeding, you'd only get those from blood feathers... here's what a couple of blood feathers look like from a blue and gold macaw... (they'd be similar on budgies too... with the blue quill instead of a clear white one)

[Miracle1980]

Thanks for that website link. I think I may have seen that method in my searches, but I was just nervous about the blood feathers since it was my first time ever clipping a bird's wings. I added that site to my favorites and I will be sure to revisit it next time.