Making a Playgym

[Ariana0902]

I have nothing to do most of my days this summer. Though I don't have a bird yet, I would like to make a playgym. It would give me something to do! Is there any wood that is safe for birds? If so, what are the wood types? I found that many people use wood from their backyards and clean it very good. What would be the cleaning procedure? Thanks!


- Ariana

 

[parrotqueen]

Hi there, Ariana!

I'd like to direct you to this link here: Wood / Trees / Bushes Considered Safe for Birds

I hope this helps!

 

[HRH Di]

Here's a link with a list of parrot safe wood. Bird; Birds: Safe, Toxic Trees, Woods. Safe Tree Wood. Parrots. Parrot cages.

As for cleaning it...I've never done this, but I would assume get a relatively stiff-bristle brush (but not wire) and bird-safe soap.

To tie everything together...use sisal rope (found in most home improvement stores) or undyed, unbleached cotton rope (usually a little harder to find).

Good luck and be sure to post pics when your done!

 

[apatrimo94]

There's several things to take note of:
1)Be absolutely sure the wood is pesticide free
2)There are some trees that are good, and some that are not, I'll find a link to a site that explains
3)When you wash them, thoroughly wash them in 10 parts water and 1 part bleach, then leave it out to dry.
3)Have fun and be creative!!!

 

[apatrimo94]

Bird; Birds: Safe, Toxic Trees, Woods. Safe Tree Wood. Parrots. Parrot cages. Here you go!

 

[_Cass_]

I would like to direct you to this link I found that has two lists of safe and harmful wood
Bird; Birds: Safe, Toxic Trees, Woods. Safe Tree Wood. Parrots. Parrot cages.

Here are some links to pictures and ideas.

http://www.fosterparrots.com/DIY/playstand.html

How to make a bird play stand | CanineFostering.com

Create A Secure Playstand For Your Bird

 

[Ariana0902]

Thankyou very much! I am new... so what is the thumbs up in the bottom right corner all about? I thank all of you... so would I click the icon?

 

[apatrimo94]

you click on it on the person's post to thank them specifically.

 

[Ariana0902]

Thanks apatrimo94!

 

[Ariana0902]

I was just outside gathering some branches that would be good for the playgym. I started to saw with a little hand saw and my hands are hurting. Using electric tools would be much more appealing! I will continue the work tomorrow!

 

[Mel]

I live in Australia so use eucalyptus branches of various sizes, I soaked them for a few hours in the bath with diluted bleach then rinsed them under the shower and put them outside in the sun to thoroughly dry. I used a mitre-saw to cut them, drilled hols with a fine drill bit and stainless steel screws. I added sisal rope for my birds to hang off and climb on. The base is made from left over floor boards and has wheels underneath so I can move it around the house. - its prety big. The cat also uses it as a scratching post

It's really satisfying to see the birds having so much fun with something you built yourself. Please spot some photos when your done

 

[Ariana0902]

Thanks Mel. I will definetly post some pictures once finished!

 

[Mel]

BTW Welcome to the forum

 

[Ariana0902]

Thanks for the welcome!

 

[Aussie Ben]

Welcome to the forum Ariana!

Same as Mel, I use Eucalyptus branches (there are so many of them where I live lol). I drive/walk around looking for freshly fallen tree limbs. I don't like using the old crusty ones because they are usually home to spiders, lizards and other little critters. I check for any wild bird poop and chew marks from wild cocky's. If the branches came from a fairly clean place, I sand and scrape any 'iffy' bits off, then I soak them in really hot water for a while. I don't use bleach, I'm sure it is fine to use but I just get paranoid about it soaking into the wood and my birds ingesting it. If I can't fit them in the sink or bath, I get the kettle and dribble the hot water over the branch.

 

[Ariana0902]

Thanks Aussie Ben!

 

[Ariana0902]

I had some family come up from Texas, so these past few weeks I have been very busy. I have figured out how I would like the playgym to look, and all I need to do is clean the wood. I will definetly post pictures once finished!