How do you know when they're nails are too long?

[bickitrainer]

I'm not sure if Bicki's feet need trimming or not. He has special perches in his cage that are said to naturally help degrade the nails and he does do alot of outdoor activity, so I'm just not sure if I need to also trim his nails.

Is there like a certain length or something?

[Karen]

I think if he scratches you they need trimming.

[bickitrainer]

Oh, is that all?

[avinet]

Most birds never need a nail trim - they should wear naturally to the right length. I have a lot of birds brought into the shop for a nail trim but very few that actually need or get a trim. Often though, nails get too sharp and start snagging in clothing or carpets. My definition of too sharp only starts when the nails are snagging. I tell cutomers that nails are naturally sharp so a bird can grip on a branch in windy weather and, if the nails are not snagging then just get used to it.

Most cases where nails are too sharp are when incorrect perches (too thin usually) are in a cage or when birds spend a lot of time out of the cage on top, standing on wire, or on shoulders or chair backs, where nails don't get any wear. By better managing the environment and routine of the bird the nails can quickly get worn down to an acceptable sharpness. When I got my first Grey his nails were extremely sharp, and drew blood when he was perched on my arm. After 2 or 3 weeks with good thick eucalypt perches in a cage his nails became comfortable to have him on me. They are still sharp, but don't draw blood and don't snag so that is acceptable.

Your Bicki would be unlikely to ever get nails that are too long if the perches are thick enough - at least thumb thickness for a lovebird.

cheers,

Mike

[bickitrainer]

Thanks so much Mike for the info! ^_^

Coolios.