What does the cryptic crossword clue "Returning mate slightly wounds birds (8)" mean?

The definition is "birds". The wordplay uses a reversal. PAL (reversal="mate") + WINGS (synonym="slightly wounds") = LAPWINGS; definition: "birds" The answer is LAPWINGS.

Returning mate slightly wounds birds (8)

Guardian Cryptic #29363 | 14 Across | 2024-04-22 flower

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