What Are Safe Woods for Bird Toys?

Mental stimulation is critical for birds. Lack of mental stimulation causes stress, which leads to feather plucking and mutilation. Wood toys provide some of the stimulation birds need. The importance of using safe wood for bird toys cannot be overstated. Wood considered safe must be free of any pesticides and without any type of treatment such as pressure-treated lumber. Pressure-treated lumber contains different chemicals such as copper and arsenic, which are poisonous to birds. Do not use any wood from nearby highways because the toxic emissions from cars may be absorbed into the trees.

  1. Manzanita

    • Manzanita is a favorite among bird owners. Manzanita is an extremely hard wood that even large birds with big, strong beaks take time to destroy. Branches make excellent long-lasting natural perches for small birds such as canaries to large birds such as the hyacinth macaws. The dark-reddish brown color makes nice looking toys and perches. The smooth surface makes cleaning effortless. Manzanita grows in the western regions of North America, including Southern British Columbia in Canada, Washington, California and New Mexico in the United States and Northern and Central Mexico.

    Cholla Cactus

    • Not only does the dried skeleton of the cholla cactus provide natural perches for birds, it makes fun chewable bird toys as well. This wood contains holes and cavities that provide interesting spots for hiding treats and toys. Birds are very curious and the cavities keep birds active with hunting and playing for long periods. Birds of all sizes and species enjoy the dried out remains of the cholla cactus. Cholla cactus is located in the hot deserts of the American Southwest. Most pet stores carry cholla cactus wood. Look in the bird toy section, reptile section or the small animal section.

    Pine

    • Pine is readily available. Different wood shapes keep birds interested and active for long periods. Many tools which help in the preparation of bird toys include drills, hole cutters, jigsaws, table saws, wood lathes and skill saws. Birds love chewing the soft pine and can go through toys very quickly. It is a favorite because it is easy to find and inexpensive.

    Yucca

    • Nearly all birds find shredding irresistible, and the yucca tree makes an active toy for those shredders. Yucca is a perfect toy for smaller birds such as parakeets, cockatiels, conures and African dwarf parrots. Shredding activities help to relieve stress and feather picking.