Comments on: How to Restrain a Bird

on 8/19/2007 THANK YOU Ginger Davis! I joined this site specifically to make the same comment. It is very important not to squeeze the birds body tightly as they will suffocate. Also, it's important to have some quick-stop or other method of stopping bleeding nearby when clipping toes or wings. ONE jerk by the bird can result in a too-close clip. I have used flour in a pinch --but more than a pinch! lol- and even cauterized a bloodied toe with a cigarette. A last resort but it worked!

on 11/22/2005 Birds don't have a diaphragm (like mammals), so their abdomen must move during respiration. When handling them, keeping the abdominal area free to breathe is very important. Many birds that I see do better when they have something in their beaks to play with. A Q-tip can help distract them. Also, be careful not to cover their eyes too tightly with a towel. This can scratch their corneas.

on 11/22/2005 Join a local bird club. Most veterinarians or pet stores can tell you where they are and how to reach them. Visitors are welcome. You will find many years of experience with pet birds, breeding, training and handling and people willing to help.

on 11/22/2005 Enticing your bird back into the cage is easily accomplished by placing its favorite food in the cage while the bird is
watching.

on 11/22/2005 Condition your bird to associate the towel with safety and fun. Carry him around in the towel. Play "peek-a-bird" while your bird is hiding in the folds of the towel. When you have to restrain him for grooming, use the same towel you use for play.