How to Trim the Wings of a Lovebird

Keeping the flight feathers of pet lovebirds trimmed is an important safety precaution. With only the primary feathers trimmed, your lovebird can glide and land safely; however, it cannot reach the height or distance that would allow it to escape outdoors. Limiting a bird's flying ability also makes it safer around the house, where flying birds can hit windows, mirrors and in other ways come to harm.

Things You'll Need

  • Small towel or washcloth in a light color
  • Cat or bird nail clippers or sharp, blunt tipped scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Study the general external anatomy of the bird's wing. Looking at the bird's left wing from the top in an extended position, the long feathers on the far left are the primary feathers. Directly above those are the primary coverts. Between the primary feathers and the bird's body are the secondary feathers. The primary feathers are what you trim.

    • 2

      Hold the bird in the palm of your hand with its back against your palm. You can also wrap the bird gently in a soft washcloth or small towel, especially if he is not used to being held and restrained.

    • 3

      Extend the wing, holding it with your fingers from behind the bird and with your thumb in front of the bird.

    • 4

      Clip the primary feathers below the primary coverts cutting evenly in a smooth line. On a lovebird trim about eight or 10 feathers, or all of the primary feathers.

    • 5

      Repeat for the other wing. Clip the two wings identically so the bird will be able to glide smoothly.

    • 6

      Release the bird and let him fly for a few minutes to make sure he is able to glide smoothly. If he isn't, adjust the trimming to make the two wings the same.