Bird Toys

Whether you have adopted a rescued parrot as a companion, or purchased one from a pet shop, hopefully you will have researched the correct size cage to get, and the types of food your bird needs. But there is something that many do not give too much consideration to, and that is the quality of the toys for your bird. The larger the bird the more intelligent they are in most cases, so they need things to keep them happy and busy when you are not around.

The Reflection Of Doom

The above image is of a month old mirror with bell that broke and resulted in a small sliver of metal becoming detached from the internal mounting point of the bell. Small enough to cause injuries to some of the larger parrots, and a perfect example of what not to buy for them. If you must get a mirror, get a well made solid one. I would favour a polished metal one with rounded edges as they are often sturdy. Also, if they have a bell on the end, check that it is attached very securely and the chain is of sufficient thickness so as not to break or become detached. People often get a mirror for their bird if there is only one, but they need more things to keep them entertained than staring at a reflection. I’ve seen many bird toys in various pet stores that are unsuitable for parrots and some simply dangerous. Personally I would completely avoid those cheap little plastic surrounded mirrors. They may be okay for a budgie, but they are terrible for larger birds.

Nature Provides Enrichment

When it comes to enrichment and keeping parrots happy, nature provides the best solution. There are plenty of manufactured toys you can consider as well, just inspect their construction and quality very closely before allowing your parrot to use them. Items such as pine cones, native branches, even knotted strips of vegetable tanned leather seem popular with parrots. If you can’t get some bird safe branches for them to nibble on straight away, consider getting a simple nontoxic wooden block and drilling a couple of holes into it. You could then stuff their favourite food into it to keep them busy. Just make sure the type of wooden toy is safe for your birds to chew on (natural pine is often used). Also, a must have for parrots is good rough bark branches for them to perch on, if its the same type as they use naturally in the wild you should be safe. If you are looking for something else to place into your parrots enclosure try a clean leafy branch, ensuring its something that wild birds of the same breed like. You could also purchase things like natural willow grass toys, and sea grass rope to help keep them busy.

Parrots Out & About

Not having a flight aviary, people will often let their birds out of the cage inside their homes with the windows covered so that they can stretch their wings and play. While this can provide a great bonding experience it is also when you must watch them the entire time. Don’t take your eyes off them. They will see your household items as new toys and play with them, not knowing how dangerous even simple items are. I’ve seen parrots try to bite power cords, and pull the nibs out of pens, all in under 30 seconds. Be aware of what they are doing, have your bird toys ready with you, and most importantly, be with them the whole time they are out of their enclosure. Watching your parrot for a few minutes sure beats paying a $2,000 vet bill.

Bird Hammocks

Birds love to cuddle up to things and hammocks are often used as an easy way to let your bird play and hide, most parrots will love them. The only issue I have seen with hammocks is that larger birds could often unpick the threads used in their construction and they can end up inside your bird. This is very dangerous and can be deadly to your parrot. If you do have a parrot that loves hammocks but also loves to pick at threads, you could attach it when supervising their playing, and then remove it again. Consider a new cardboard box for them to play in as an alternative, just ensure there are no dangerous things attached to it like staples or tape, and open up one side to let them hide and have fun.

Swings

All birds seem to love movement and a swing can also help keep them entertained. Avoid those cheap plastic swings and either buy one that uses a natural branch as the perch, or simply build your own. Custom building your parrots swing is simple, if you build it yourself you can get the perfect height and width swing for your bird.

Each parrot is different and has their own attitude, likes and dislikes. Finding the right toys and being active with them while playing can be time consuming, but when you see them excited and enjoying life, its worth a bit of extra effort.