PERCHES AND BIRD TOYS: Picking the right wood.

PERCHES AND BIRD TOYS: Picking the right wood.

When it comes to setting up the environment for your feathered friend, you know there are many considerations. Proper cage size, access to natural sunlight, type of perches and toys, and the right food and water dishes are all important components of creating a suitable habitat for your bird. 

Bird toys, especially wood ones, are a favorite among most birds!

Wooden bird toys and perches provide entertainment for our pet birds and help them keep their beaks and nails trimmed. 

Our pet birds enjoy chewing wood because it provides them with a sense of security and satisfaction.

 Choosing bird safe wood for your feathered friend is also important to ensure the health and safety of your feathered companion. 

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right wood for your feathered friend.

When choosing bird safe wood for your pet bird, it's important to know the types of wood that are safe and which ones are potentially hazardous.

Cedar, Red Cherry, Plywood, and Oak are wood types that are not safe for birds to use in toys or perches.

You want to make sure the wood you choose is not treated with any hazardous chemicals or toxins that could be harmful to your bird’s health. 

To make sure you’re selecting the right wood, look for untreated wood that is free from chemicals, pesticides, and other potential toxins.

Look for FSC-certified wood. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies that wood has been sustainably harvested and is free of hazardous chemicals.

 It's also important to note that some woods such as redwood, cedar, and fir are not suitable for birds because they contain toxic oils and are not safe for them. 

The best woods for bird toys and perches are those that are untreated, such as applewood, maple, birch, balsa, oak, pine, and poplar. These woods are generally safe and non-toxic. 

 Wood density is a key factor in selecting bird toys and perches. Softwoods like pine, larch, alder and poplar are great for small birds like the green cheek conure, as their little beaks cannot handle hardwoods like manzanita. 

However, if you have a medium to large bird like an African Grey, hardwoods like manzanita are great, as they are strong and durable. It's important to choose the right kind of wood for your bird, as it can make all the difference in terms of safety and enjoyment.

You should avoid any wood that has been painted, stained, or varnished, as these finishes can contain toxins as well.  Paint, varnish, and other finishes may contain lead or other toxins that can be harmful to birds. 

Choose woods with a smooth finish. Rough or splintered wood can cause injury to your bird’s feet.

Lastly, be sure to inspect your bird’s toys and perches regularly for any splinters or sharp edges, as wood can deteriorate over time and can become a potential choking hazard as these can cause injury to your bird.

Choosing the right toy for your bird is an important part of being a responsible bird owner. The size of the toy, the materials and design are important, as your bird should be able to comfortably play with it. 

Additionally, you can use your first-hand knowledge of your bird's play style and toy preferences to help you select a toy that will be safe and enjoyable for your feathered friend. With a little research and some careful consideration, you can find the perfect toy for your bird!

Check out our amazing collection of bird safe toys! We have toys that are designed to be safe for your feathered friends, and they come in a variety of colors and shapes to provide hours of entertainment.

 With our bird safe toys, you can rest assured that your pet is safe and having fun! Click here to explore.

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