It is recommended that the carotid arteries and jugular veins be severed immediately afterwards to ensure death. Captive bolt pistols designed for livestock can be used to euthanize larger poultry species like waterfowl and ratites. The pistol should be applied correctly. Because there is motion after use of the captive bolt, it is advisable to restrain the bird to prevent injury to personnel. It is recommended that the carotid arteries and jugular veins of the bird be severed immediately afterwards to ensure death .
Specialized equipment is required to ensure humaneness and personnel safety.
Birds can be killed by severing the jugular veins, carotid arteries, and trachea. Full decapitation also results in a rapid decrease in blood pressure and brain stem trauma. However the blood vessels may seal after being severed, delaying the onset of unconsciousness, and brain responses do persist for a brief period of time after decapitation. For this reason, exsanguination or decapitation should only be used as sole methods of euthanasia in extreme emergencies involving animal suffering where alternative methods are not feasible because of lack of equipment or trained personnel. Exsanguination and decapitation are acceptable methods of euthanasia when the bird is first stunned or anesthetized.