Wyld’s Wingdom is open 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (EST) Monday through
Friday.  Phone: 800.366.9953 Fax: 757.858.8366  Pet Bird Care –
Bird Beak Basics  By Wyld’s Wingdom  Bird beaks are complex and
vary from species to species, based on feeding habits.  This
vital organ is made up of bone, vascular layers, Keratin, and
dermis and continually grows.   Keratin is the same protein
found in fingernails, hooves and horns, so you can get an idea
of how beak growth occurs.  A bird’s beak can grow from 1 to 3
inches per year, depending on the species.  The part of the beak
closest to the bird’s head contains nerve endings and blood
supply, while the tip of the beak is more like a fingernail and
doesn’t feel pain.  The bird naturally keeps growth in check by
wearing down the beak through normal activities like feeding,
grooming, chewing, using the beak for climbing and rubbing the
beak.  It’s generally thought that a healthy bird will wear down
the new growth of the beak so that it always looks the same.
Birds can have an o