Read About Bird Cages-Containment

Choosing the best perch for your bird will help keep her happy and healthy. In the wild, birds are exposed to rocks, rough perches, and other factors that keep their nails and beaks worn properly through natural abrasion. Perches also give your bird a place to stand when she isn’t flying around in her cage. Choosing the best perch for your bird includes finding a perch that is safe and durable, and provides some variety for your pet bird. Sandpaper perches, although readily available at many pet stores, should always be avoided. Perches should always be the right size for your bird and, depending on the breed of bird, your bird may need multiple perches. Birds that enjoy climbing, such as parrots, are generally happy with a single large perch. These birds often spend more time climbing on the cage bars than standing on their perches. Breeds that tend to fly more than climb, like finches, should have a perch at either end of their cage. When choosing the best perch, start by deciding on the type of materials used. Most “starter” bird cages come with perches made of pine or other soft woods. These are acceptable for most birds, but your pet may be easily bored with the smooth, sanded surface. Think about gathering natural wood branches, either in addition to or instead of choosing a perch from a store. Dowels can also be used for perches, giving your bird a greater variety of diameters than plain pet store perches. Plastic perches, either made from PVC or acrylic, are usually very durable and easy to clean. If you opt for a plastic perch, be sure to offer your bird plenty of other items to chew on. While PVC perches are sturdy, birds who are strong chewers will be able to damage the perches and potentially harm themselves. Mineral perches, which may also be called cement or concrete perches, are good for most birds. The rough texture helps birds groom their beaks and nails. Anther option in choosing the best perch is one made of rope. These are convenient for humans because they are easily cleaned in the dishwasher or washing machine, and most birds really enjoy them. Rope perches must be inspected regularly and discarded when they show signs of wear, to prevent your bird from catching her nails in it or swallowing pieces of the rope. Choosing the best perch is only one step. You must also be sure to place the perch or perches appropriately in your bird’s cage. Perches should never be placed where the bird’s droppings can fall and contaminate food or water bowls. Be sure to place the perches so that the bird’s tail feathers are not going to come into contact with water or food, or the floor of the cage. When placing multiple perches, put them far enough apart that the bird gets some exercise moving from one to the other. Choosing the best perch (or more than one) for your bird and placing the perch properly can help keep your bird fit and happy. Perches provide the opportunity for exercise and play as well as grooming. Choosing the best perch for your bird is almost as important as choosing a cage that’s right for him.