WHEN A BEAK NEEDS TO BE TRIMMED

Like a fingernail, a bird’s pecker comprises living tissue that grows throughout its life. The beak is made up of bone covered by a thin layer of skin and a constantly growing hard keratin protein layer. Birds use their beak as a tool to grasp onto things, to maintain balance as they forage about

Do bird beaks overgrow?

Yes. Pet birds, unlike their wild counterparts, do not have many opportunities to wear down their beaks because they do not hunt for, collect food, and build nests. This comparative underuse means that pet-bird beaks usually overgrow. Beak overgrowth can be caused by viral, parasitic, and bacterial infections in the same way that nutritional deficiencies, metabolic imbalances, and physical trauma does. In some cases, overgrowth happens within weeks, whereas in other cases, it may take months for the outgrowth to become conspicuous.

Knowing when to trim a bird’s beak

If a pet owner senses that his bird’s beak has overgrown, then they should have it trimmed. The most common beak trimming exercise is performed with the electrically powered Dremel Drill. Basically, the bird is covered with a towel by the driller, while another person holds it still gently. The driller uses the sides of a conically-shaped grinding drill stone to grind the beak’s tip one moment at a time, ensuring that they don’t overstrain the bird or drill long enough that the machine overheats. The driller must be mindful not to clip too much from the pecker, otherwise, the drill may nick a blood vessel or nerve, resulting in bleeding and excruciating pain for the bird.

The beaks of Small birds like budgies, finches, and cockatiels can be clipped using an emery board. We would not recommend the use of handheld tools like toenail clippers or any gardening tool. These tools may lead to accidental splits and cracks, as well as the jolting of the base of the beak, where the keratinous layer forms, which may lead to possible beak malformation in the future.

Unless you’re versed in veterinary practice, you should not attempt to clip your pet’s beak. You risk injury to both yourself and your pet. So, if you discover that your bird’s nibblers loo elongated, unshapely, and abnormal, you can schedule an appointment with an avian vet. At King’s Cages, we pride ourselves on being the foremost authority on bird wellness concerns. Contact us to locate a vet near you to perform a bird beak trimming procedure.

The vet will gently fritter away the superfluous layers of the pecker in a way that matches the natural erosion of the beak in wildlife, resulting in a more naturalistic appearance while lowering the probability of injury to your winged friend.

And when the procedure is done…

The bird is certainly stressed from the day’s appointment, so it’s necessary to take it home to its cage. Caress it as it is accustomed to reassure him that you love him, but only briefly; most birds prefer to be left alone for some time after enduring a grueling visit to the vet. Make fresh water available for it and an abundance of tasty treats. Dissuade friends and visitors from unsettling the bird until it has recommenced its regular activity.