As springtime goes into full swing, and we all have new bird cages to decorate, let’s shower our birds with new perches in April! We are not just bird cages at Bird Cages 4 Less. We have a great selection of perches in many different styles, and in every size you can imagine. So, invite your companion parrot to sit on your shoulder – his favorite perch – and learn something new about the perches your feathered friend should have!
We’ve all seen the stereotypical parrot cage – boring, barren, and with a single swing or dowel rod perch through the middle. There are many reasons why this isn’t the best situation for any bird – but do you know why?
Birds are animals which stand on their feet for their whole lives. If they’re only given a single straight rod perch to sit upon, they’re likely to develop arthritis as they age. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, you should provide perches of varying diameters to exercise their feet and reduce the possibility of pressure sores(source).
Birdie the Yellow-naped Amazon (pictured right) is a prime example of what only providing a single perch can do to a parrot. For approximately 40 or more years, Birdie had only a single perch in his cage and so, developed arthritis. His condition is so severe that he cannot uncurl his feet. Birdie’s mom Nicole L. says that he is a happy and chatty parrot despite his crippled feet – but she wishes his previous owner had known more about foot health in parrots.
A proper perch for any bird is one that allows the bird’s toes to wrap 2/3 of the way around the entire diameter of the perch. You should have at least one perch of such a size in the cage. Typically, an appropriately sized perch is included with your cage purchase. This perch is perfectly fine to use as the central perching point in your cage as it is already cut to stretch for the entire length, and will likely make it easy for your bird to reach his food and water dishes.
One perch, however, is not enough for any bird cage. You’ll want to include at least two other perches of different sizes to provide your bird choices of where to sit. Although you may provide a perch smaller than the optimal diameter, it is unlikely your bird will choose to sit on it as it will be uncomfortable. It is better to provide two slightly larger perches made of different materials. While choosing larger perches, make sure they aren’t too outrageously large; even a flighted bird can slip off a too-large perch and injure himself!
So, how do you determine which diameter is best for your feathered friend? Don’t worry – here’s a simple reference guide to make it easy for you to shop our website or make your own DIY perches.
Size |
Species (and similar) |
Diameter Range(inches) |
XSmall |
Finch
|
3/8″ to 3/4″ |
Small |
Cockatiel
|
3/8″ to 3/4″ |
Medium |
Caique
|
1/2″ to 7/8″ |
Medium-Large |
African Grey
|
5/8″ to 1-1/2″ |
Large |
Large Cockatoo
|
3/4″ to 2″ |
XLarge |
Greenwing Macaw
|
3/4″ to 2-1/2″ |
So far, we’re off to a great start with the April Perch Series! What else would you like to learn? Feel free to interact with us via the comments section, e-mail, or even our Facebook page. Keep checking in all month long for helpful tips and an in-depth look at all of the perches we have to offer at Bird Cages 4 Less. And, don’t forget to check out our entire selection on the perches tab on our full site!
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