I have a 9 month old Lutino female that has had several blood feathers removed in the past. Recently, her wings were clipped by an avarian care expert who showed us how to clip her wings being careful of blood feathers. About two weeks after this clipping we noted significant bleeding from under her wing while she had been preening herself. Previously I would have gone immediately to the vet, but it was late on Sunday evening and it was not possible to go. I have several questions. Since the bleeding has long since stopped is it still necessary to remove this blood feather? Next, I attempted to use some of the "stop bleeding powder" during the above incident. The bleeding stopped but I'm not sure the powder had anything to do with it. Should this powder be used for this purpose? I ask this question since the bird, Berudo, continue to pick and preen the area after the bleeding stopped; she seem to get some of this powder in her eyes which caused great discomfort. Any help or tips would be greatly appreciated.

Martin Schanze

Dear Martin,

It isn't necessary to remove the broken feather unless it is irritating the bird. If she picks at it, it would be best to have it removed.

A powder to stop bleeding should be kept on hand at all times with your emergency kit (for birds). The commercial brands are probably the best, but we've also used cornstarch or flour at various times. Keep these options in mind, but always have one of them on hand.