Why Do They Hold Them This Way ?

[lovezebs]

Hello All...

On different bird sites, I've come across many pictures, where they show people holding different birds in a way that baffles me.

Usually these are what appear to be wild birds, grasped by their legs, with the persons fingers, right up close to the birds belly/chest.

My question is: Why do they hold them this way? And, how on earth do they get the to sit so quietly, without wing flapping and attempting to dislocate their legs (?)

Another bird holding question, and I have seen this primarily in pictures of Canaries. This method, involves grasping the Canary's wings together at the top, with the poor bird's body hanging down helplessly. To me, it looks painful, like a person with their arms twisted behind their back and pushed upwards.

Does anyone have any ideas?

[debbie276]

Have not held a bird the way in your pictures but have seen many others do that. For whatever the reason the birds do sit calmly.
The way you describe the canary hold I've done myself on ducks, geese, turkeys, chickens etc. It doesn't hurt at all and is the best way to control those large wings.

[lovezebs]

debbie276

I'd be terrified that the bird would attempt to fly away, leaving me with two toothpick legs grasped in my fingers, and a legless bird careening around the room .

As for the Canary hold, l'll have to take your word on that one Deb...... still looks very awkward for the unfortunate bird in question.

Have a great day.

[debbie276]

If you watch a bird in flight their wings easily go straight up. Watch a duck land on water, wings are straight up.

Towards the bottom there is a picture of a sparrow flying.
http://www.twootz.com/article/Bird-Flight

[lovezebs]

debbie276

When you're right, you're right !!!

[debbie276]

Just didn't want you to think the bird was in pain being held that way

[lovezebs]

debbie276

Thanks Debbie

[Colt]

I've tried the leg hold for photos when I really need the bird to sit still. I don't do it often but it works.

I've never seen someone hold a canary the way you are describing, but I do know I've held large poultry that way. It's wonderful. They don't struggle at all. The only thing you have to watch is they put down their landing gear (legs) before you place (drop) them over a fence or wherever. They tend to draw their legs up and you don't want them "bouncing" off their keels or breastbones.