Sycamore perches

[Flboy]

OK, trying here,
Multi part questions:
Looks like I will be making my own perches, I have both sycamore and guava in my yard(love Florida!). I understand both are safe. Do I need to remove the bark? Any special prep? Without doubt, no insecticides are used on my property, or next to it, also not near any busy streets.
Next question, Dragon wood, quick search says it grows in Florida, HUH? What is it?
David

Update, since it is so easy to remove the bark on a sycamore, I most likely will.

 

[weco]

Removing the bark from branches was not originally so much due to removing potential chemical residue as it was for keeping bugs out of your home, but as new untested (for bird safety) chemicals come on the market, it seems the impetus has swung to pesticides and other chemical residue as the reason, but whichever reason you choose to claim, the suggested temperature range for baking is anywhere from 150 degrees to 250 degrees for anywhere from 15 minutes to 30 minutes.....I guess if you like things on the rare side, lower temps for a shorter time would probably meet your tastes, while the higher temps, and cooked longer would probably work for those who like things well done.....

 

[getwozzy]

I prefer to leave the bark on if possible- it's more fun for the fids that way...

I usually pressure wash to remove any exterior ickies, then they dry for a few days...if it fits in the oven I do 250* for 30 minutes.

People often give fresh cut branches for foraging fun (myself included)- which usually just get hosed down and shaken out....it's really up to your personal preference and comfort level at how much "cleaning" you do.

 

[veimar]

Do you have a steamer for clothes? I always use it to disinfect something on top of soaking it in Clorox (and washing very well afterwards, of course).