List of Safe Woods for Parrots

When it comes to providing your parrot with toys and perches, choosing safe and non-toxic wood is essential. Parrots love to chew, shred, and perch on natural wood, which not only keeps them mentally and physically stimulated but also helps maintain their beaks. However, not all woods are safe for parrots, as some can contain toxic substances or harmful chemicals. To ensure your feathered friend stays healthy, it's important to use only parrot-safe woods. Here’s a comprehensive list of safe, non-toxic woods that are perfect for making toys and perches for your parrot.

Safe Woods for Parrots (Listed Alphabetically)

1. Acacia

A safe and durable hardwood that is great for toys and perches. It is long-lasting and can withstand heavy chewing.

2. Apple

Apple wood is safe and has a pleasant texture that parrots love to chew. Ensure the wood is pesticide-free and thoroughly washed.

3. Ash

A strong hardwood that is excellent for perches and toys. It is sturdy and resistant to heavy beak work.

4. Bamboo

Lightweight and hollow, bamboo is perfect for foraging toys and perches. It is durable and encourages natural chewing behaviours.

5. Birch

Birch is a soft wood that is safe for chewing and making toys. It is lightweight and easy for parrots to manipulate.

6. Cottonwood

Soft and easy to chew, cottonwood is great for toy making and perches. It is ideal for smaller parrots and those that enjoy softer woods.

7. Dogwood

A hardwood that is safe and non-toxic, dogwood is excellent for perches and toys. It has a smooth texture and is resistant to wear.

8. Elm

A durable hardwood that is suitable for making strong perches and chewable toys. It is tough and can withstand a lot of beak action.

9. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a favourite among many parrot species. It is safe and has natural oils that can be beneficial, but it should be dried and cleaned properly before use.

10. Fig (Ficus)

Safe for parrots, fig wood is often used for perches and toys. Ensure the wood is untreated and pesticide-free.

11. Grapevine

Grapevine wood is twisted and provides a unique texture for perches. It is safe for chewing and adds a natural aesthetic to cages.

12. Guava

Guava wood is safe and non-toxic for parrots. It is dense and provides a good chew for birds of all sizes.

13. Hazelnut

A soft to medium hardwood, hazelnut is great for perches and toys. It is safe and provides a good texture for beak maintenance.

14. Linden (Basswood)

Soft and easy to chew, linden wood is suitable for toys and light perches. It is great for smaller birds that enjoy shredding.

15. Magnolia

Magnolia wood is safe for parrots and has a smooth texture that is pleasant for perching. It is strong enough for medium-sized birds.

16. Manzanita

Manzanita is a very hard and durable wood, ideal for perches that last. While tough, it provides excellent grip and is completely non-toxic.

17. Maple

A popular choice, maple is strong, non-toxic, and great for making perches and toys. It is durable and can withstand moderate to heavy chewing.

18. Mulberry

Mulberry wood is safe and offers a great texture for parrots to chew on. It is sturdy and can be used for both perches and toys.

19. Pear

Pear wood is another safe choice for parrots. It is a hardwood that is durable and perfect for chewing.

20. Pine (Kiln-Dried, Untreated)

Pine is soft and easy for parrots to chew, making it great for toys and perches. Ensure it is kiln-dried and free of any chemicals or preservatives.

21. Poplar

Poplar is a soft, safe wood that is easy for parrots to chew. It’s commonly used for perches and chewable toys.

22. Rosewood (Brazilian)

Rosewood is safe and provides a hard, durable surface for perching. It is beautiful and highly resistant to wear.

23. Sassafras

A light, aromatic wood that is safe for parrots. It is great for making lightweight toys and perches.

24. Sycamore

Sycamore wood is a safe, soft wood that is perfect for toys and perches. It has a pleasant texture and is easy for parrots to chew.

25. Willow

Willow is soft and flexible, making it great for chew toys and perches. It is particularly appealing to birds who love shredding.

Important Tips for Using Wood for Parrots

- Ensure All Wood is Pesticide-Free: Before giving any wood to your parrot, ensure it has not been treated with pesticides, chemicals, or preservatives, as these can be harmful.

- Clean and Dry Wood Thoroughly: Clean all wood thoroughly to remove any dirt, fungus, or residues. Spray with F10 solution and allow to dry before offering wood or browse to your parrots.

- Avoid Woods from Unknown Sources: Never use wood from roadsides, treated landscapes, or unknown sources, as they may have been treated with chemicals that are toxic to birds.

- Monitor for Changes: Always observe how your parrot interacts with new woods. Some birds may chew aggressively, and it’s important to replace perches or toys if they become damaged or splintered.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right wood for your parrot’s toys and perches is crucial for their safety and well-being. The woods listed above are all safe, non-toxic options that can provide hours of enrichment and enjoyment for your bird. By ensuring the wood is untreated, clean, and safe, you can create a stimulating environment that supports your parrot’s natural behaviours and promotes overall health.