Bird Toys
Pet birds are known for their love of toys and play. Because many pet bird species are quite intelligent, they can bore easily. Keep them active and happy inside their bird cages by providing toys for foraging, climbing, chewing, preening, and a variety of other activities.
What types of bird toys do birds like?Each pet has its own favorites. If your pet is new to you, then purchase a few toys of each variety, space them out in the bird cage, and allow your birds to choose favorites. Give them time to play with cage-hanging toys, chewing toys, foraging toys, toys with bells and mirrors, cage-based swing and ladder toys, foot toys, and perches.
What types of perches do birds like in their cages?Your pet might have its own perch preference, but most bird parents supply their bird cages with a variety of perches. Different-sized perches made from a variety of materials help keep your pet birds feet healthy. Some of the types of available perches include:
- Wood
- Plastic
- Rope
- Swings
- Natural branches
Rope toys help birds keep their beaks clean, and younger birds may use these toys to practice preening. Since birds put the bird toys in their mouths, choose bird toys that are made from soft cotton or other natural fibers. Soft fibers are safe for birds, especially if your birds feet get caught up in the fibers. In addition, the soft ropes make comfortable places for your bird to stand or walk inside the cage, so you know that your bird is safe.
What types of wood are safe for birds?Many bird lovers like to place branches in their bird cages so that their parrots or other pets have natural perches. Wood is used for many types of blocks, pet cages, and other bird toys. Most bird parents understand that harsh chemicals and paints can be toxic, so they choose natural wood from apple trees, ash, birch, beech, poplar, and willow. These wood perches may also remind your bird of its natural environment, providing a comforting location inside the cage.
How big should your bird cage be?Large parrots require cages that are at least 48 inches high. Smaller birds, like finches, are housed in cages that are 18 inches high. A medium-sized cage height is 24 inches. Domed cages, square cages, or multilevel cages can be large enough to accommodate foraging and other bird behaviors, such as enjoying a variety of bird toys.