Depending on the body type of the bird, different wing trims methods can be used.
Figure 1 shows a suggested trim for a strong flying bird, such as cockatiels, conures, quakers, lorikeets or budgerigars. These birds are very difficult to ground, even with very invasive wing trims. Heavy-bodied birds that are accomplished flyers may also require this trim, as do many cockatoos.
Figure 2 shows a suggested wing trim for a young or heavy-bodied bird, such as an African Grey, Macaw, Amazon, Caique, or Senegal Parrot. This trim is easy to grow out, protects growing feathers, provides maximum maneuverability to the ground and limited ability to gain lift.
The alternative to any form of Wing Clipping is the use of a harness. WPP uses and recommends the Prestige brand Feather Tether harness. Although the style used for the smaller birds is not recommended by us, as it is based on the old figure 8 style and can in some cases act like a slip knot if not placed on the bird correctly.
We at WPP prefer to clip the wings of smaller birds and harness train the larger birds should this be neccessary.
The best way to clip is with 2 people - 1 person is capable of clipping however if you are a learner it is best to operate with 2 people until your confidence levels increase.
Person 1 holds the bird facing away from person 2 (the mean one with the scissors) if neccessary use a towel to place over the bird to act as a calming method.
Person 1 will need to hold out 1 wing with person two cutting the individual feathers as indicated by the dotted line in figures 1 and 2.
Person 1 then holds out the other wing and the process is repeated.
Remember DO NOT cut any further back up the feather shaft than the next row of feathers as this can injure your bird.
Once done your bird is clipped and should be able to safely move about without causing him or herself an injury.
If you find you have followed figure 2 and your bird can still fly well then repeat the process using figure 1.
