How to Make a Perch for a Parrot

Parrots and other birds need perches for comfortable sitting, exercise and good health. According to Pet Parrots 101, natural wood perches are ideal for a parrot because it promotes good health and is not slippery like plastic materials. (See Reference 2) Making a perch not only ensures that the wood is natural but also makes a fun project and allows the owner to replace or obtain a perch at minimal cost.

Things You'll Need

  • Wood stick
  • Measuring tape
  • Drill
  • Socket wrench
  • Hanger bolts
  • Washers
  • Wing nuts
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select a wood stick. Stick sizes will vary depending on the size of the parrot and its feet. Pay attention to the size of the bird's foot and pick a wood stick that is about the size of the foot. For example, if the bird is too large to perch comfortably on a hand or finger, get a stick that is larger than the finger by the size of overlap. Pet Parrots 101 suggests varying perch sizes and shapes for optimal foot health, so slightly larger or smaller perches will not usually cause problems. (See Reference 2)

    • 2

      Select hanger bolts, washers and wing nuts. Measure the bird cage bars and pick washers that are at least as large as the bars. Hanger bolts should fit the wood stick with excess room around the middle, and the wing nuts should fit the hanger bolts.

    • 3

      Drill a hole in one side of the perch. Use an appropriate sized drill for the hanger bolt size and the wood stick size.

    • 4

      Put the hanger bolt into the hole. The side that looks like a screw goes into the wood, while the other side of the bolt, which is designed for tying thread to keep the perch in the cage, looks slightly different. Use a socket wrench to place the screw easily into the wood. Stop screwing in the hanger bolt when the screw side is no longer showing.

    • 5

      Slide the washer onto the hanger bolt. Only one is necessary, but M.D. Vaden suggests using one on the inside of the cage and one on the outside. If using only one, it should placed on the outside of the cage. Vaden states that only stainless steel washers should be used, to prevent problems with toxicity. (See Reference 1)

    • 6

      Put the wing nuts in place. Turn them to the right on the hanger bolt until it meets the washer. Tighten until it will not move. This will keep the washer in place and completes the parrot perch.