Perches and other wood things

[lsaucedo]

I was wondering if anybody knew if it is OK to use one of those wreaths you can purchase at a craft store in a cage for birds. It says it is dried grape vine. I thought it would be pretty cool for Mickey to tear apart, its like alot of little branches intertwined. I haven't purchased one, I thought I'd look into it first. Also, If I had dried maple tree branches, would those be bad for my birds? I'm looking into building Mickey a playground and would like to use as many things as I can that I can easily get. I can always just purchase a manzanita perch or something like that, but I have more fun building something and having my daughter help. Thanks in advance for any feedback.

Luis S.

[The Outlaw]

Luis:

May I suggest that you use the tan colored wicker wreaths instead? Unfortunately, unless they are using wild grapevines, more commercial grapevines are heavily treated with insecticides for the grape harvest.

The lighter colored wicker wreaths aren't made from fruit producing woods and need not be sprayed.

Just my humble opinion.

THE OUTLAW

PS. If they are imported from Mexico, they are all heavily sprayed for infestation before they come into the States.

[pheonixfire]

maple branches are okay 4 birds, but if you have any in the area, I know from experience that quakers love willow branches. Just make sure it hasn't been sprayed for a few years (not sprayed at all is even better). Most things at craft shops that are made--like your wreath-- shouldn't be used I think. There's too much of a chance that there is something bad for your bird in it (toxic glue--etc.). If you want to get a wreath for your bird, I'd suggest making one! It doesn't take very much time, and birds are crazy for them! If you get some thin branches and make one, then you can stuff some millet in, and one of their fav. treats and make a game out of it. :D

Hannah

[lsaucedo]

Thanks for the info. I was more inclined to stay away from the wreaths, just thought I'd ask anyway. I don't have any willow trees real close to me, but there is one by the office and there is a branch that came down during a storm. I will need to pick that up on Monday. I currently have a couple maple branches that I will cure, they are in my garage right now.

Luis S.

[pheonixfire]

Yup, no problem! Hope your birdy loves it!!! Tell me if he approves!

Hannah :D

[Majj]

Any Fruit tree branches should be o.k..too I use gum trees , gravillia and Bottle brush ..
You can make a play tree for your guys too with a pot and big pebbles to hold the branch then hand some toys to play change it about weekly so your bird doesn`t get board....

[Tiki]

Maj, I love your playgyms! I recognize most of the toys, but curious about the sausages...are those dog toys? My playgym is in a topic in Bird Talk

http://www.birdboard.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3394

[Majj]

Yep doggy Toys ...I am going to look at your playgym now ....

[Majj]

I saw your playgym and Cliffs too , they are GREAT ..make mine look a bit sick...lol..But the fids play on them so thats the main thing....
Nighty Night..