How to Remove Tape Off of a Bird

A bird's feathers provide insulation and protection from UV radiation, keeping the average body temperature of most birds around 104 F. They also provide security in the way of coloring, allowing the bird to use camouflage to remain hidden from predators or their prey. Finally, they provide the bird with the ability of flight, which for many birds is the primary means of locomotion. If a bird has been caught in a glue trap or gotten some form of adhesive on its feathers, then the bird may be put at severe risk.

Things You'll Need

  • Vegetable oil
  • Multiple soft cloths
  • Mild dish detergent
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Instructions

    • 1

      Calm the bird by placing your hand or a cloth over its eyes. If the bird is panicked, it may thrash around, getting stuck further or damaging feathers. If the bird has a favorite toy or treat, then that may assist you in keeping the bird calm while you remove the tape.

    • 2

      Dip a soft cloth in vegetable oil and gently apply to the stuck feathers. Work around the tape to slowly work it free. Do not pull on the tape, as it may damage the feathers.

    • 3

      Continue wiping down the feathers gently until the tape has been fully removed. Once the tape has been removed from the feathers, continue applying the vegetable oil until all traces of the adhesive have been eliminated.

    • 4

      Wash the affected feathers using a fresh soft cloth dipped in mild soapy water. Use a detergent, such as mild dish soap, that is gently on the skin and can break down grease and oils.

    • 5

      Return the bird to a location where it feels safe. This has been a traumatic experience for the bird and it may need some time to calm down. Cover its cage partially and speak to it in a calm voice to give it time to recover from the stress.