Wing Clipping

Wing Clipping

Birdline believes in the right of birds to fly. Clipping a bird’s wings is not a decision we take lightly, and we only consider clipping wings for two reasons:

  1. The bird is a hazard to itself when fully flighted i.e., if a bird has always been clipped, it may not have gained the correct muscles and skills to fly and land safely.
  2. The bird has such severe behavioural issues that it is a risk to humans and can’t be placed in an aviary as it also a risk to other birds, rendering the bird unrehomeable. This is not a decision we take lightly and would endeavour to explore every other avenue of medical and behavioural management before resorting to clipping.

Birdline members must discuss issues and seek permission from their Area Director before arranging for a Bird’s wings to be clipped.