We are calling for a review and change to UK animal welfare laws regarding the routine clipping of wings in Psittacine birds kept in domestic homes.

Psittacine birds are members of the parrot family. This includes budgerigars, cockatiels, parrots, macaws, conures, African greys, lovebirds, ringnecks, kakarikis and many other companion bird species.

Birds are naturally designed to fly. Flight is not simply a form of movement, it is essential for their physical health, mental wellbeing, confidence, balance, coordination and natural behaviour. Preventing a bird from flying can have serious welfare implications.

Wing clipping is often promoted as a way to tame birds or make them easier to handle, however many owners are unaware of the risks involved. Clipped birds can suffer from:

• Stress and anxiety

• Depression and behavioural issues

• Loss of confidence and independence

• Obesity and muscle deterioration

• Injuries from crash landings

• Broken blood feathers causing severe bleeding

• Reduced ability to escape danger

Unlike dogs, where cosmetic ear cropping and tail docking laws have been strengthened to protect welfare, birds still lack specific protection against unnecessary wing clipping performed for convenience rather than medical necessity.

We believe that: • Routine cosmetic wing clipping should be reviewed under UK animal welfare legislation

• Stronger welfare guidance should be introduced for companion birds

• Education should replace outdated taming methods

• Wing clipping should only ever be considered under exceptional veterinary guidance where genuinely necessary for the bird’s safety or medical care

We are asking for support from: • The UK Government

• The RSPCA

• The Parrot Society UK

• The Budgerigar Society

• Avian veterinarians and bird welfare organisations

We need as many signatures as possible to help raise awareness and show that bird welfare matters.

Every signature helps give these intelligent animals a voice.

Please sign and share this petition.