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Beaks

A parrot’s beak is an important tool used in climbing, foraging, eating, and more. They are hard and made out of keratin just like our fingernails. And, also like our fingernails, a bird’s beak will continue to grow continuously during its lifetime. This is important because they chip, flake, and wear down over time due to chewing and normal use.

Under the keratin layer are a network of veins and nerves, making it a sensitive area. A healthy bird should not need it trimmed unless it is offset or crooked, causing it to wear unevenly. The regular chewing and cleaning of the beak maintains it at the proper length. Cosmetic filing of the beak is unnecessary and can be stressful for a bird, potentially making it sore for eating and climbing. Instead, try rubbing a dab of coconut oil on the beak for a shiny glow; this will also help keep it moisturized.

Significantly long beaks which curl downward towards the chest may need regular trimming to allow a bird to climb, preen, and eat normally. In some cases this may caused by underlying health factors which may be important to investigate.