How to Make a Climbing Grid Rope for Birds

Climbing ropes are an excellent form of enrichment for birds, which is why they have become popular with bird owners. Birds can climb on ropes, hang upside down on them and chew them, which results in lots of exercise. Large rope grids for macaws and cockatoos can cost more than $100 at specialty bird retailers, but you can save money by making your own.

Things You'll Need

  • 1/2- to 1-inch sisal rope
  • Measuring tape
  • Scissors
  • 4 quick links
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine how long and wide you want your grid rope to be. Measure the space it will hang from to decide just how big you want to make it.

    • 2

      Purchase your rope and quick links. Choose the rope thickness that works best for your bird; for example, use 1/2 inch for a parrotlet or 1 inch for a macaw. You will need to buy about 15 to 20 times the length of the longest side of your grid. For example, if the longest side is 6 feet, you will need at least 90 feet of rope.

    • 3

      Cut the first four lengths of rope that will be your edges.

    • 4

      Lay out the four pieces of rope to make the outline or frame of your grid. Overlap the ropes at the corners. At each of the four corners leave one long piece of rope hanging beyond the grid frame. These will be used to attach the rope grid to the parrot's play area.

    • 5

      Tie the corners of the grid using a knot that will not slip. A square knot or a rolling hitch will work well.

    • 6

      Cut the pieces of rope that you will need for the horizontal and perpendicular lines of the grid.

    • 7

      Lay the rope lines down on the grid where you want them. There should be enough space in the holes of the grid for your bird to climb through and not get strangled. Suggestions for hole sizes are 7 inches by 7 inches for a macaw, cockatoo, or Amazon, or 4 inches by 4 inches for cockatiels or lovebirds.

    • 8

      Tie all of the ropes at connection points. Use the same knot throughout to have a consistent look.

    • 9

      Cut off any loose pieces. There should only be four long pieces of rope coming from the corners to hang the grid by.

    • 10

      Attach a quick link to each of the long corner pieces. Your bird's grid rope is now ready to be hung for him to enjoy.