Parrot Enrichment Isn't Safe

There is not a single parrot enrichment item that is parrot safe. I said it, and I meant it. “Parrot safe” toys is a marketing ploy to give a false idea of safety so they buy the toys. This is also an effective marketing strategy for people who aren’t as expected with parrot care to know they’re getting something “safe.” But… they’re not really safe.

One reason a toy may not be safe is ingestion of materials. A bird may try to eat anything! From wood to plastic to foam, if a bird thinks it’s edible, it is. Alfie and many of my clients birds try to eat wood, a known “parrot safe” item. Saying no to plastics because of a fear of ingestion, yet buying an all natural toy is hypocritical because the same risk is still there. Natural materials being ingested can still cause a slew of medical concerns.

Another concern with parrot toys safety are the cordage. I have seen “parrot safe” stamps on toys that use galvanized wire. Galvanized coatings have been linked to metal toxicity in parrots. Chains have been known to cause parrots toes and beaks to get caught in the openings. Cotton rope cordage is known to cause crop impaction… the list goes on and on.

I know I’ll get comments of “I give my bird ___ and they do fine with it,” and then immediately challenge my education I’m posting. That’s the exact point I’m after. Every bird is an individual! Since nothing is safe, it’s important to monitor your bird and only give them things that they safely interact with. I’ve watched my guys for hours chewing on a wide range of plastics, and every time they spit them out. Some birds have items they cannot have on a specific basis because they have given me a level of concern that has proved to be not worth it.

Everyone has their own beliefs and makes their own choices for their birds, which I will never judge. I’m here to be sure correct education is given on the toys and enrichment materials you use so you can make those choices confidently! Every bird is an individual, like us, so they will interact and enjoy different things than other birds, even of the same species!

If you are interested in getting your bird enrichment items, feel free to shop our toy line here.