Instructions
Choose perches of varying thickness and diameter, such as a branch-style perch with offshoots. This will prevent foot problems such as arthritis and atrophy by exercising your Quaker parrot's feet, building foot strength and increasing dexterity. According to the Doctors Foster &Smith Pet Education website, a good diameter range for Quaker parrots is 5/8-inch to 1 ¼ inches.
Opt for perches made from different materials. They are available in a variety of materials, including wood, granite, rope and acrylic. Like varying diameters, different perch materials will contribute to good foot health. For example, granite naturally trims the bird's nails, rope provides exercise and other materials offer comfort.
Pick a perch with a textured surface. These are easier for your Quaker parrot to grip when compared to smooth surfaces and are especially helpful for sleeping.
Choose perches that can be easily cleaned. Quaker parrots can be messy, so perches made from washable material will make your life much easier.
Select perches made from high-quality materials. You may need to pay more, but the perch will last a much longer time. The coating on cheap coated surfaces tends to come off quickly, and poor quality wood will not hold up to chewing and washing.
Choose perches that can be placed at various levels in your Quaker parrot's cage. Some birds prefer being low, while others want to be as high as possible. Some like to be on a mid-level perch during the day and move to the top of the cage while sleeping. Get an easy-to-grip perch for the top of the cage, as many Quaker parrots prefer to sleep as high as possible. Granite perches work well near food and water dishes because the bird will use them several times a day and keep her toenails trimmed. Rope and wood perches near the middle are ideal for playing and resting.
How to Choose Perches for Quaker Parrots
Perches are a Quaker parrot's version of furniture. They provide a place to hang out and relax, access the food and water dishes and sometimes even sleep. They can also contribute to your bird's foot health because of the amount of time he will spend perching, according to Winged Wisdom Pet Bird Ezine. Because perches are such an important part of your Quaker parrot's life, you'll need to invest some effort into choosing the best ones.