Expert: Christopher Emory - 5/17/2011

Question
QUESTION: I'm getting a few parakeets and I don't want to clip their wings. I know that they might fly away, but don't the birds bond with humans and won't they stay loyal to you? They will be healthier if they fly right? What's the chance that they will have the urge to fly away?

ANSWER:  Edmund,

It is only nature and a matter of time before they fly away if they are allowed to fly free. The misconception is that birds can't fly with clipped wings, they can "fly", however they can't gain altitude(height) and they can't sustain a long flight. Birds with clipped flight feathers are generally more bonded to their owner(s) as they have usually become use to being picked up, carried, etc.

The other concern's with free flight, parakeets or any pet bird will ultimately fly and land in a very bad place (like a hot stove, behind a counter, in a toilet, etc.) when they are allowed to fly free. They can also fly into windows, doors, ceiling fans, and the list goes on and on.

Bottom line, your bird(s) will live longer and healthier lives if you clip their wings. If you do not wish to allow them to fly freely over the house, or they are kept in a large aviary, then you can choose whatever suites your needs.


Best of luck

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I did some research and some sources said that budgies are healthier when they are allowed to fly. I know this is dangerous, but I also learned about FlightSuits and harnesses. Are these safer and healthier for a bird or should I just stick with leaving the budgies' wings clipped?

Answer
Edmund,

As I said in my last answer, clipping a birds wings does not prevent him/her from flying. It will keep him from gaining altitude (height) and prevent him from flying to the tree tops or any long distance. It is certainly healthier for birds to get exercise by being allowed to fly. With the same token, allowing them to fly around the house un-clipped or unleased will put a whole new set of dangers and basically take away any healthy benefit. It won't do much good for the bird(s) to live healthy if they aren't going to survive but a week. Flight Suits, harnesses, etc, can all be used. Or you can purchase/build a flight cage for the birds to enjoy. I have a large aviary, all of my birds are unclipped and enjoy a full range of flight, but they are never turned out because of that. My aviary house's 100+ birds, you can make yours to suit your needs.


Best of luck, and continue your research.