It is highly debatable whether parrot owners should have their birds’ wings clipped or not. Is it risky to keep a bird flighted? Is it too stressful not being able to fly? As parrot owners the real matter is keeping your bird safe in its environment.
Flying is a remarkable ability of birds, and extremely advantageous to a life in the wild. It is a means of travel, escape, survival, and more. When kept in captivity and reduced spaces, is there still a benefit? Yes. Parrots that are allowed to fly in controlled outdoor spaces like aviaries, or in large rooms have increased lung function, strong muscles, better fitness, and balance.
But there are also drawbacks to having a full flight parrot. Parrots that become startled or are flying in unfamiliar spaces may get injured flying into walls, mirrors, and windows. In instances where a parrot is a pet with a large family, a family with small children, or one that has frequent guests, a bird that has been clipped is much safer. With so many people it can be hard to regulate open doors, open windows, loud noises, strangers, and more. One of the main causes of bird loss is from flying away, and once outside, it can be very difficult to recover them.
Clipping is also beneficial to new parrot owners that may have difficulty handling full flight parrots and are unaware of potential hazards. A regular grooming every 3 months is recommended. Very independent birds can even become dominant or territorial when they regain the ability to fly.
Every home situation will be different, which is why it is important to take a moment and think critically about what is safest for you and your feathered friend.