Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 4/29/2006

Question
Hi I have had my budgie since December and was told he was a baby. His wings were clipped when I bought him and they have grown longer now I have clipped them back a little but not as far as they were simply because I do not want to damage his wings however, when I first got him and he sat on my shoulder there was never a problem but now his claws seem to be catching on every item of clothing I wear and he seems to get angry when he cannot undo his claws from my clothing. Are the claws supposed to be cut and how often should this be done.  

Answer
Hi, Deborah.  Thanks for posting.

Yes, parrot toenails need to be clipped whenever they feel "sharp" to you.  This is necessary so they can perch properly, as well as not get injured in toys, fabric, cage wire, etc., if toenails get caught in these items.  Basically, you take a pair of regular fingernail clippers we would use and clip the tip of each of your budgies' toenails.  You don't have to clip too far down...if you clip the vein that runs through the nail, you will draw blood.  Some nails are dark and some are light.  On light nails, you can see the vein if you hold the toe up to a light.  Same as clipping a dog or cat's toenails.  Depending on how tame your budgie is, you might be able to do this with him just standing on your finger.  Some birds have to be held in your hand, some have to be toweled.  My website has more information on clipping wings and toenails if you'd like to visit:

http://www.angelfire.com/falcon/birdinfo/index.html

Chrys