FAQ: Perches for birds

It is not recommended, especially for nervous birds, because a completely changed cage can cause stress. Replace perches one or two at a time, leaving the favourite sleeping perch in place.

Birds are often wary of new shapes and colours, and a soft, flexible rope perch may look unstable to them. Fix it firmly, place it lower down and give the bird time to get used to it.

Yes, a travel carrier should have one low, firmly fixed perch so the bird can hold on during the journey. A perch set too high can be dangerous on the move, as the bird may fall and hit itself.

For travel, use a low, sturdy, non-slip perch that does not spin or move. Other cage accessories such as swings or hanging toys are better removed during the trip so they do not swing into and hurt the bird.

For a weak or ill bird, vets often advise lowering perches or leaving only a platform so it does not fall and can easily reach food and water. Follow the vet’s instructions on setting up a temporary cage.

Common mistakes are perches all of one thickness, too many perches in the cage, perches above the dishes, sandpaper covers and branches from unknown or sprayed trees. Owners also often forget to replace worn rope perches in time.

Better not, because such items are often varnished, painted or treated, and pencils contain graphite and paint. Use only untreated wood from safe species or perches made for birds.

Soft fabric covers are sometimes used for older birds or those with foot problems, but they get dirty quickly and loose threads can tangle around nails. Such covers need frequent washing and checking for fraying.

Natural, untreated bamboo can be used for bird perches, but its surface is smooth and hard, and when chewed it splits into sharp splinters. It suits birds that chew less and works best as one of several perches.

Natural cork is light, gentle on the feet, and birds happily chew it. It wears out fairly quickly and is harder to clean, so it is more often used as an extra perch or play element.

It is a perch made from dried cactus wood full of holes, which gives the feet a varied surface and birds enjoy chewing. The wood is light and fairly soft, so it wears down quickly in the cage of a heavy-chewing parrot.

Yes, untreated grapevine is often used for bird perches and toys because it is twisty and varies in thickness. Make sure the vine was not sprayed with chemicals, and prepare it the same way as other natural perches.

Metal perches are rarely recommended, because they are slippery, cold and hard on the feet. If there is one, for example as part of a stand, there should also be wooden or rope perches nearby where the bird can rest.

Acrylic perches are easy to clean and durable, but their smooth surface can be slippery and uniform for the feet. Combine them with natural branches or rope perches rather than using them alone.

A branching perch is a piece of natural branch with several forks, so the bird can climb and choose different thicknesses. It resembles the natural environment and encourages more movement than a plain straight rod.

A hand-held T-perch is used for training, for example teaching the bird to step up or moving a bird that is still afraid of hands. It is also handy when you need to pick up a bird that bites.

Slowly bring the perch or hand towards the bird’s belly, just above its feet, say the same word when it steps up, then praise it and give a treat. Keep sessions short and patient, without forcing the bird.

During the heating season indoor air is dry, so clean perches regularly and keep the cage away from radiators and draughts. For warmth-loving or older birds in a cooler room, a heated perch can help.

An outdoor aviary suits sturdy natural branches that stand up to the weather and need regular checks for rot and mould. Some perches should be under a roof so the birds have a dry spot when it rains.

Birds often compete for the highest or most comfortable perch, especially if there is only one such spot. Fit several similar high perches in different parts of the cage so every bird has a resting place.