Crossword Genius

Like the proverbial bird you want being dealt with (2,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

in hand

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'being dealt with' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for in hand that I've seen before include "Ready for use; making progress" , "Under control; ready for use" , "Cards are often" , "Some bananas may be" , "already accumulated" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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