How to Build Bird Perches

Birds living in cages must have some type of perch to be able to move around. A variety of different sizes, types and styles is best so that your bird has several choices. Bird perches are available at pet stores, but can be very expensive. You can make inexpensive perches for your birds that are just as good as store-bought perches. Learn how to build bird perches by following the steps below.

Things You'll Need

  • Round, untreated wood
  • Drill
  • Stainless steel washers
  • Stainless steel hanger bolts
  • Wing nuts
  • Closed-end nut (for temporary use)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the width of the space between the bars of the cage. Get stainless steel bolts that will just fit between the bars and nuts that fit on the bolts. Also measure the ends of the wood pieces and get washers that are about that size. This keeps the ends covered so that the bird cannot easily gnaw the ends of the wood.

    • 2

      Drill a small hole in the center of each end of the wood. Make sure there are no cracks in the wood as you drill the hole. Drilling can also cause cracks, so inspect the wood closely after drilling the holes. Only drill a starter hole, as you will use the actual bolt to drill the complete hole.

    • 3

      Insert the hanger bolt into the hole and put a closed-end nut on the end. Grip the closed-end nut and use it to turn the hanger bolt and drill it into the wood. Insert the hanger bolt halfway into the wood. Remove the closed-end nut. Repeat this step on each end of the wood.

    • 4

      Place a washer onto each end of the wood and then secure it into place with a wing nut. Tighten the wing nut so that the washer doesn't move.

    • 5

      Place the perch in the cage and put the bolts on each end through the bars of the cage. Place wing nuts on the outside of the cage to tighten the perches into place.