Reddit mentions: The best bird toys

Really, it’s my pleasure. I just like knowing that some little parrot is gonna be happier because I was able and willing to share knowledge on how they should be cared for. :)

So, onto foraging.

You know how cats like to hunt? And dogs enjoy working for food? Well, parrots like to search for theirs and uncover it!

The YouTube Channel FlockTalk is a parrotlet-oriented channel that you should check out! They’ve got some videos on DIY toys, but I’ll give you my bird’s favourite, too.

I did a search, and in case that link doesn’t work, here’s an image of the product. In case that also doesn’t work, here’s an Amazon link to the product.

^ With these, I use a small skewer, toothpick, or something else very long and narrow to push seeds into the very soft wood. As your bird chews it apart, he’ll be periodically rewarded with seeds! This is very fun for them! You can use this method with any soft or porous (having many small holes like a sponge) toy! Just push in or pour the seed into it for your bird to find!

My parrotlet really likes paper, so making some paper contraptions with food inside is always a good time once they realise there’s a reward in it for them besides fun. FlockTalk has some nice tutorials, but any small oragami piece made of plain, non-toxic paper with gaps to shove seeds into will suffice. :) You probably want to have her play with it over a solid surface instead of cage bars so they don’t lose the seeds, whether it’s out with you or a small tray in her cage (not below any perches so it’s less likely to get pooped on).

You can absolutely get creative with toys! Just make sure all the materials are bird safe. Anything that they have to destroy to reach the food is fun for them; it makes them work for it, like a cat stalking prey, or a human going to a not-soul-crushing job to earn a living.

If you aren’t already aware, parrots are scarily intelligent. Even the little ones have a formidable brain behind that beak; it’s what allows them to mimic sounds! Intelligence and boredom just really don’t mix. They’re too smart to be unoccupied for long periods of time. If you know how to read their body language and sounds, it’s downright creepy how much they understand.

Changing the position of the toys and perches can help with engagement! Like rearranging your room, moving stuff makes things fresh and interesting. I personally leave the “favourite perches” (the ones he spends a lot of time and sleeps on; the rope by the “broccoli corner” and the branch by the little bird warming plate) in the same place always, but your bird may or may not be upset by their favourite spots being moved. Other than the favourites, changing the decorations around is a good way to break the monotony of living in a cage. It’s even better if you have enough toys to rotate them. It’s recommended you do this every one to two weeks, but it won’t be the end of the world if you don’t. As long as everything is clean.

My mom and I use So Phresh Wipes to keep the cage sanitary between deep cleans. You might like them, too!

In the end, parrots need clean surroundings, a variety of available food, routine without monotony, and parrotlets specifically need at least an hour of Out-Of-Cage time per day (though more is highly recommended, as they are very social creatures).

And again, any questions, concerns, or curiosities about parrotlets you may have, feel free to contact me and I’ll either give you an answer or a few reputable links that will point you in the right direction. All I want is for our babies to live long, happy lives. :)

Parrots are very high maintenance, but so incredibly smart. They’re truly a joy to have around, as I’m sure you can attest to.

How did the first attempt with chop go? Don’t be discouraged if she didn’t take to it immediately; birds past adolescence are often very reluctant to try new things. It’s normal.

I get all my fleece from JoAnn stores. They often have fleece at 50% off per yard, so you can buy it in bulk and use it as needed. Any large fabric store will have lots of fleece in stock (I just prefer JoAnn because that's the best one I have in the area I live in). I'm sure you know this already, but just in case, please don't use cedar or pine chips as bedding for your rats; it's harmful to them. You can use fleece or aspen chip bedding (but freeze the aspen for 48 hours prior to use to make sure it's free of parasites).

I buy many rat toys on Amazon, and make some myself. If you're buying any kind of wooden rat toy, do be aware that many of them are made from soft woods like pine and cedar, which are super bad for rat respiratory systems. Hardwood toys are usually safe—just make sure it's not a combination wood that also has pine or cedar in it along with the hardwood. I personally do not buy wood toys on amazon, because the products often don't list what kind of wood they're made of. The only wood product I buy on Amazon is bags of untreated apple branch chewing sticks. I'll link you to some rat-safe toys and accessories I buy on amazon below! :)

Kaytee Lava Ledge
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00176F466/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s03?ie=UTF8&psc=1

15" Chin Spin - Small Animal Exercise Wheel - Handmade in USA (Expensive, but it's the very best and safest wheel for rats.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GJ6SDBQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bright Starts Lots of Links Accessory Toy (Great for hanging things up in the cage.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ABZGU2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&th=1

Small Animal Activity Toy Cotton Rope Net For Rat and Ferret Pet Bed for Parrot and Hamster Parrot
https://www.amazon.com/Animal-Activity-Cotton-Ferret-Hamster/dp/B0777NWKT9/ref=sr_1_2?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1519011945&sr=1-2&keywords=rat+rope+net

Kaytee Igloo Hideout, Large
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00068K132/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

ACCO Binder Clips, Medium, 2 Boxes, 12/Box (A7072050) (If using fleece as the bedding/liner in your cage, this helps to secure fleece to the Critter Nation pans.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TQ8FDB8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap - Baby Unscented, 32oz. (I don't use any scented products with my rats since rat respiratory systems are so fragile, so this is the non-scented liquid soap I use to wash my hands and their non-fabric toys.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DAI76TC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Pawliss Teeth Grinding Lava Block for Hamster Chinchilla Rabbit
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HGHA6VW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Aspen/Booda Corporation BBX56134 Byrdy Cable Cross Bird Toy, Medium
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003WRHTG6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

200g(7oz) Apple Sticks Pet Snacks Chew Toys for Guinea Pigs Chinchilla Squirrel Rabbits Hamster(About 50-70 Sticks) by MAIYUAN (The only wood product I buy on Amazon.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WLL641Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ware Manufacturing Fun Tunnels Play Tube for Small Pets (Medium.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001LUMU9M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ware Manufacturing Plastic Scatterless Lock-N-Litter Small Pet Pan- Colors May Vary (Regular size, not jumbo.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003SLICDA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

JW Comfy Perch for Birds (Large, 36".)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002AR754/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Lixit Critter Space Pod 2 Large (You can hand these on the ceiling of the Critter Nation. My boys LOVE these!)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002X2NBNQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Lixit Lbg-16 Glass Small Animal Bottle 16 Oz (16oz is always best for rats because of the bigger water spout. I've found that smaller bottles are a struggle for my boys to get water out of, so I only use the small ones for rat carriers/transporter cages. Tip: filtered water is best for rats, so if you can, get a Britta water filter.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002WYCFK0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yummy Time Tiny Small Stoneware Pet/Dog Bowl
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NAUMYDC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I buy Harlan Teklad (Envigo) food blocks for my rats, which is one of the top two for rats (the other is Oxbow Regal Rat). Harland Teklad is hard to find though, so I buy mine through this animal rescue:
http://weecompanions.org/healthy-food

If you get these blocks, freeze them to extend their shelf life, and take them out from the freezer as needed to fill your ratties' bowls. Harlan Teklad is great because they have several formulas for rats based on their age, which is super helpful for their health. Young rats up to 8 months usually eat Harlan Teklad 2016 (16% protein), and after 8 months they eat Harlan Teklad 2014 (14% protein).

Also, I don't have a link for this, but the best laundry detergents to use to wash your rats' cloth toys or bedding with is one that's non-scented and is sensitive on skins.

Um, if I think of anything else, I'll add it. But for now, it's already a ton. :P Enjoy!

(And feel free to message me if you have any questions!)

(1) we have used all of the above. Standard collar holds tags the best, our training class provided a choke collar and we find it easiest for walks, and when he was still very small (8 weeks came home, so for about our first month or so) had him in the harness before we started training.

(2) we have all 3 - the retractable is new and I haven't used it yet, but we got it for beach trips so he can roam, then we started with a nylon and got a leather one from the class. We now use the leather mostly... just because its nice on the human paws :)

(3) We started with a 36" crate, at basically full grown he's fitting in pretty tightly, but still fits. We also ended up adding an ex-pen. If I was buying the crate now, I'd go up a size or two so he'd have some more space. I also highly recommend the pen if you have room.

(4) We've gone through a lot of beds... he's chewed them to bits... so might as well start off simple and cheap. He put a hole in the nice one we got recently within an hour.

(5) When he first came home, his favorites were the rope toys and unstuffed animals with squeekeres. Don't get things with stuffing!! They will try to eat it, and that makes for a lot of supervision needed. Now that he's a little older, he also loves balls, particularly [with teeth]
(https://smile.amazon.com/Coevals-Club-Interactive-Non-Toxic-Cleaning/dp/B01LARUD6M/ref=sr_1_17?ie=UTF8&qid=1493386356&sr=8-17&keywords=treat+ball+for+dog)
& [brain activity] (https://smile.amazon.com/OurPets-Treat-Ball-Interactive-Dispensing/dp/B003ARUKTG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1493386356&sr=8-3&keywords=treat+ball+for+dog)

(6) Foods:

• Blue Buffalo Puppy Chow
  
• Local pet store organic puppy mix
  
• Pupperoni training treats
  
• Beggin' Bacon Strips
  
• Blue Buffalo PB Hearts crunch treats
  
• Blue Buffalo dental sticks
  
• [Bully Sticks] (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HBVSG74/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) - mostly for teething, but he does "eat" them
  (7) We did a local class. For socializing, we've made sure to introduce him to people from day one - and dogs since he was fully vaxxed unless we know the dog.
  
  (8) Biggest challenge - he has chewed up window sills, door frames, etc when home alone. We originally thought it was OK to leave him in an empty room with just his toys etc bc we had an empty bedroom. He ruined the listed items of the room. Hence, adding the ex-pen. Happiest moments - it's like when people talk about their partners and babies... its the little moments, like when they snuggle up which you don't expect because its rare for the breed, or when they accomplish something - like being house broken, or a command (sit, etc).
  
  (9) we're lucky... he loves both dogs and people. Archer is an attention whore, and the more praise and play the better. This can vary by individual dog, like individual human.
  
  (10) The only thing I wish I could change is how long my commute it, and how late I get in. My husband is able to spend more time with the puppy than me which is just my own jealousy. Also... we use a dog walker 1-2 times a day (we're moving down to 1 now that he holds his bladder/bowels longer). The mid-day visit is SO important, if you can't take lunch at home... you need to have him with someone - a dog walker, a pet daycare. He cannot be alone for that long.
  
  Also... know he's a smart breed. He's not like a lab or a collie who will live to please you. You live to serve him (or her! I have a boy, so I keep using him) which means that you have to learn about his idiosyncracies. Because he is smart, but easily bored... you will need to figure out what kind of attention and stimulation keeps your shibe baby happy. Is it mental stimulation and logic puzzles? They make more than the tops I shared... so start looking. Also, just play hide and seek. Does his hunter instinct kick in? Sometimes, when he's feeling extra frisky instead of feeding him in a bowl, I'll toss his kibble and treats into the toy, or literally around the room so he can "hunt" for dinner. Is he feeling neglected? Bored? he's going to cause trouble...so how can you make sure he knows you love him. Think of him like April Ludgate in Parks & Rec, or a cat. He wants to know he can have your attention when he wants it - but he will not just snuggle because you want to... or pay attention to you if it doesn't meet his interests or needs. You'll fall in love (hopefully) and won't care, but the shiba will rule the fam not vice versa so get ready for it.

I marked things with a [w] if they're on my WL!

1. Something that is grey. China Glaze Polish Ecollection Recycle [w]
   
   
2. Something reminiscent of rain. Hehe, a watering can [w]
   
   
3. Something food related that is unusual. Miracle Noodles - they're these weird low-carb noodles [w]
   
   
4. Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. (Yes, pets count!) LARPing Book for my friend Dennis. His is missing several pages, which is very frustrating to him. He's endlessly dear to me. [w]
   
   
5. A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it! Other People's Love Letters - doesn't that just sound romantic? :D [w]
   
   
6. An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related! Mickey Mouse Cookies!
   
   
7. Something related to cats. I love cats! (keep this SFW, you know who you are...) SmartCat [w]
   
   
8. Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it. Triple heart necklace <3 [w]
   
   
9. A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why? Love Me If You Dare. Everyone should have more French film in their lives. It's a beautiful, artistic, funny, romantic movie. The main characters are hot.
   
   
10. Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. Explain. Cast Iron is heavy! [w]
    
    
11. Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals. For exercise, way easier on my knees than the treadmill [w]
    
    
12. One of those pesky Add-On items. Awesome fabric softener - and I really want it, too! [w]
    
    
13. The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why? A Roomba. I have pets. I need to vacuum more often. I'm lazy. Also he would be my robot butler friend. I'd name him Alfred or Jeeves or Pennyworth. My cats would be afraid of him. [w]
    
    
14. Something bigger than a bread box. A mattress is quite a bit bigger! [w]
    
    
15. Something smaller than a golf ball. Pearl earrings [w]
    
    
16. Something that smells wonderful. Lilac and Lilies! [w]
    
    
17. A (SFW) toy. Cat toy! [w]
    
    
18. Something that would be helpful for going back to school. Chromebook! It's actually for when my husband starts college. [w]
    
    
19. Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be. Filter for my new fishtank! [w]
    
    
20. Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand. Electric bike so, my comment on this is: “Theoretically I would like to bike. Realistically I'd like to bike, except up hills. Oh, here we are!”. Right?! Also what they sell electric bikes on Amazon? Damn! [w]
    
    Bonus:
    
    Oregon Chai!

I agree with the other posters- your little tiel looks a little bored and ready to play! a bigger cage would be surely appreciated, and some toys.
Toys are kind of hard because you never know what they will be into at first- and even then their tastes change!
These comfy perches are a good place to start

they are a little easier on their feet. As for toys, I generally go with 3 types of different toys to give my birdie some variety: something to shred, something that moves (likes a swing) and something shiny.

Planet Pleasures has a lot of great bird toys (funny name but good bird toys...)
These shredders are great and perfectly safe

my baby tiel (well, less than a year old) is rather obsessed with this toy called 'falling beads' (3rd one down from the top) and it meets my criteria of something shiny and something that moves.

as for guessing your bird's mood, this article is very helpful

And finally, as for taming your bird and getting it used to you, have you tried feeding it birdie crack millet by hand through the side of the cage? I wouldn't normally give birds millet just to eat but it works as a 'treat', gets the bird to have a good association with you, and is useful for training later on down the road.

I hope this is helpful! Good Luck!

Ah, it's heartbreaking to see a bird plucking.. Even if it's just a habit, it's not a healthy one. :/ I'm guessing that this is your first parrot?

If you can, find out any history of the bird and when it started plucking, what it's diet was like, what the home that it stayed in was like, did it have toys, has it ever been moved, etc.. Basically, take note of everything (again, if you are able). Also, did you take her to an avian vet, or a general vet?

We've got a CAG that started plucking in November 2013 after our roommate (his owner at the time) returned from a two month long trip. It didn't stop for over a year and it has taken a substantial amount of time and effort on our part to make him feel happy and secure. Yet, that didn't help. He would be happily preening on one leg, fluffed up, and pull out neck feathers while he was on our shoulders, knees, etc. (I call it his "survivor's guilt" for enjoying new owners). He was very comfortable, and very content. It made no sense. Here's some solutions that worked for us, or have been recommended (in case you have more luck with them than we did). Also, bear in mind that habitual plucking doesn't always mean that the bird is unhappy (even if she is at the moment). It's a bit like a person biting their nails. It starts out for some reason or another, but then it turns into a habit and they do it because they do.

What we've tried and has been working (He's been on the supplements for 4 months and it didn't look like they were doing much for the first two): A healthy diet of minimal seed, pellets, and fresh veggies twice a day - one scoop of featheriffic! in the mornings, and one scoop of Avicalm with each meal (breakfast/dinner). These supplements have worked for us, but our vet had warned us that they'll mask any underlying problems if they should work. Just something to keep in mind.

Another thing suggested, which might not be a good solution for you as you just got the bird and it might not like being sprayed: Featherglo. The bird store where our CAG originated from rehomes a lot of birds and recommended it as something that has worked on a few of their pluckers. I hate the smell of it and this only got attempted once.. :/

Some general things to do:

• Keep some toys in the cage to ensure that she has other things to keep her occupied and plucking isn't all that she has. Toys like this preening ring provide a bird with a good way to over preen something without destroying their own feathers..
  
• Clean the cage at least once a week and change the lining at least twice - it's gross and time consuming, but you never know.. Maybe a dirty cage could be one of the causes of the plucking..?
  
• Give her lots of love and attention - try not to focus on the plucking. Really, if it's seen as a way to get your attention and the bird wants your attention you could just be making the problem worse. It sucks, but it is what it is.. If it gives you any hope (and I hope it does!) our CAG didn't even want to be held by us when we got him. He would bite, etc. and was plucking.. It was about as frustrating as can be. However, he has warmed up to both my GF and I (more my GF) and we've got an awesome relationship now. Don't lose hope! Just be patient - 10 years is a long time to live with someone and then be given up.
  
• Make sure that her diet is as healthy as you're able to provide (lots of resources online for this, but you can always ask around here, too)
  
• Accept that she might pluck forever and love her anyways.
  
  Sorry that this is long.. :/

I've only had my BHC for a few months (he'll be 6 months old next week), so there is a lot of room for change. I'll just give you a peek at what he's like right now:

>Are they the kind of bird that wants to be on you or just watch you?

He is more than content to sit on me, especially when he wants to rub his face ("surfing") all over my clothes. He's not keen on being on my shoulder, but he's more than happy to sit on my hands and arms.. particularly when I need them while I'm on the computer.

>Do they have as much fun in their cage as they do out and about?

In my experience, no. He doesn't scream with discontent when he's caged, but he will just pace along the bottom grate making little peeping sounds when I'm up and about and haven't let him out. He does play with some of his toys in his cage, but he has infinitely more fun playing in his foraging box on my desk.

> Are they content to hang out with or on you? or are they constantly in need of something to do?

FULLTHROTTLEALLTHETIME. He and my quaker are constantly getting into mischief and they rarely, rarely settle down to just perch and preen while out of the cage. If they spend the entire day out of the cage, they'll often retire to their cages themselves to eat and preen, but they rarely take naps when not locked up.

>Extra info would be what size cage you have and what kinds of toys they enjoy.

My BHC's cage is similar to this one - about 28"x20"x41" interior space. It's more than enough room for him since he gets a lot of time outside of his cage daily, but something bigger may be better for a bird that is going to spend more time in its cage.

Some of the toys I have for him: [This] (http://www.mysafebirdstore.com/product.cgi?group=21441&product=21527), this, this, this, among others.

He isn't very destructive. He enjoys playing with toys more than he likes destroying them. He'll hang off them, or get them in his beak and thrash them around a bit.

I buy a lot of toy parts and have been making my own toys, since it's easier to cater to what they like that way.

Sometimes it can take time ( normally weeks) for them to get use to new toys.

Here are a couple I personally used:
A) Foraging wheel. Super popular among all parrot owners.

B) Probably my tiels' first foraging toy I got them.. They love to chew up the seagrass and I would hide seed balls in the 'flowers'. The seagrass mat won't last long but I did keep the bulbs to use continuously.

C) This is a tad trickier foraging toys. You can first make it easier by taking out the wooden blocks and balls. Then slowly add it after they get use to it There are also paper strips that they will probably love to take.

D) Foraging clear ball

E) Another one of the 'first' foraging thing I would do for my tiels is this millet holder. This is super easier to set up. I would especially do this for longer trips out of the house. I would throw in millet and hang it and they would go to town on it. A couple other option is stuff it with veggies or seed balls with paper in between.

F) If you don't wish to put too money down at first, you can use a shoe box and shredded paper. Here is my flock using a slow feeder bowl with rock decor

G) You can put paper over their food bowl. At first your bird will knock it off. Then you can put a rubber band and poke huge holes. Then you bird will do little work to tear through the paper. Later make the holes smaller and smaller until you stop making holes. Then your tiel will have to tear through the paper to get to her/his food.
H)This tippler toy A tad harder toy for your tiel to figure out. You will have to fill it up a lot and probably tip it a couple times for him to see.

H) This clear, drawer toy Anotehr challenging one. You will have to leave it open at first then over time close it. Your tiel will learn to open drawer by himself eventually :D

Here are some pictures of my flock using these toys I mentioned.
I covered their play stand with paper so they will have to forage through it
My conure with the tippler toy
My tiels with the millet holders
Shoebox example with my flock
Millet with seedballs and paper
The put paper over their food bowl example
I used my late dog's slow feeder and rock decor for them to forage
Clear drawer toy
Example of C foraging toy

Good luck! :D

I have a treat ball dispenser similar to this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LARUD6M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_l.iIAbBJYV97F

My pup has to roll it around, and chew it in order to dispense his kibble. He has fun with it. I also have a puzzle feeder dish he has to root around with nose in, but Moose wasn't a huge fan of that, he'd just flip it and get the food out or get bored. I've heard great reviews about snuffle mats, which are like shaggy carpet looking things you put the kibble in and the dog has to sniff around dig a bit to get the kibble. It's good sniff work, working a bit for food. Looking up interactive feeders on Amazon comes up with a lot of cool results!

I also use training sessions to feed Moose kibble, he's a bit more engaged and excited when he has to work on his sit-stays, down stays, paw, etc. He was a very picky eater when he was younger, so I tried almost everything just getting him to eat after the vet ruled out any health issues haha.

I don't know if your pup is neutered or not, but Moose didn't have much of an appetite until he got fixed at 5 months old (small breed). After he was fixed, he started completely cleaning his bowl for all meals, whereas before he would eat just a few bites at breakfast and lunch, and then eat most of his bowl at dinner, but he was only eating a little more than one full serving total. Vet always told us he could stand to put on some weight when we went in, but we just couldn't get him to finish his meals for the longest time, despite trying different foods, wet food, more exercise, etc. Moose is 8 months now, and he's gone through so many changes in appetite and attitude, so just know it does get better and they're always changing!

I'd second that, budgies are inquisitive playful creatures and need mental stimulation. They will need some chew toys like this https://www.amazon.ca/Colorful-Parakeet-Cockatoo-Cockatiels-Lovebird/dp/B01H5BCC3E/ref=sr_1_6?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1550553646&sr=1-6&keywords=budgie+chew or kabobs like this: https://www.amazon.com/Bird-Kabob-Shreddable-Parrot-Mini/dp/B00JXLOOTA/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=shreddable+bird+toy&qid=1550553894&s=gateway&sr=8-1, some toys that make noise like bells (budgies LOVE bells), and some swings to fly and hop around on. Most budgies LOVE rope swings like this: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00061UX2I/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

Also look at foraging toys for mental stimulation as well.

​

A variety of perches of shape and size (rope, wood, cement) is good for their feet.

​

Make sure to also provide a cuttlebone and mineral block.

How long have you been trying to teach her how to play?

It took a little while to find out that Sunny loves popsicle sticks, Luna loves seagrass, Cosmo and Titan love paper/playing cards. It was trial and error for us.

Sometimes it’s just the placement of the toys within the cage that can turn off a bird from playing with them.

Have you tried a foraging toy?
We put Nutriberries in this one and the birds were entertained

( Super Bird Creations SB751 PVC Forager Bird Toy with Colorful Birds & Flowers, Large Size, 3" x 5" x 8"
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JL05TJM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_QtYUDb87Q7Z40 )

Maybe you could try and assemble toys with her on the table next to the material. She might interact with the material that she finds interesting.

Hi there - both birds are male. Wallace has the same blue cere as your bird. Charlie is one of those color morphs where the cere doesn't turn blue.

I'll do my best to ID everything. I included links so you can find product numbers if you need them.

1. Lixit Quick Lock Bird Bath
   
   
2. Happy Perch - as far as I know, they went out of business. They were a small company based out of Colorado that was badly affected by some flooding a few years back.
   
   
3. Clean cup feeder
   
   
4. Scooter Z Circle Circle - I cut the rubber ball off of the one in the cage because it got brittle. That's why it currently has pieces of Shredders in it!
   
   
5. No idea on the brand, but it's a natural wood perch. The texture of the bark helps wear their nails down but it's more comfortable than the cement perches people sometimes use.
   
   
6. "The Wave" toy from JW Pet Insight Activitoys - I pulled off the bell because the company wouldn't confirm it didn't have zinc plating. Parrots play with things using their mouths and anything zinc plated can cause zinc poisoning down the line.
   
   
7. Booda Comfy Perch - there are several brands of rope perches out there. I've bought a few and they seem comparable. I have these in several sizes. My birds love them.
   
   
8. Insight wood bird perch - Don't remember the size, sorry.
   
   
9. Wood corner shelf - This takes up a lot of room in the cage so I wouldn't get one unless you think your bird will use it.
   
   
10. JW Pet Company Insight Cuttlebone Holder
    
    My birds also have the Bird Kabob Mini and the Scooter Z Tropical Lily.
    
    

Have you tried acrylic foraging toys like these?
http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Foraging-Systems-E487-Feeder/dp/B004TRYI3U/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1394131550&sr=8-13&keywords=Bird+foraging

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Foraging-Systems-6-Inch-Diameter/dp/B001N2TG22/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1394131550&sr=8-8&keywords=Bird+foraging

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Foraging-Systems-E487-Drawers/dp/B00D84OEFC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1394131550&sr=8-3&keywords=Bird+foraging

http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Foraging-Systems-Sphere-Diameter/dp/B001MWZF7S/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394131550&sr=8-2&keywords=Bird+foraging

There's SO many like these out there! It'll require your cockatoo to think as well, so it should theoretically keep him occupied longer ;) they're a tad more expensive, but they last longer and are less messy so there's value in that! I don't have a big bird anymore, so my sources are out of date, but maybe another redditor can provide some suggestions on where one can get the best deals for these :)

Good luck!!

that's good he'll goes outside his cage to play. reading is a nice idea. my tiel is also picky about toys but he likes crinkly paper toys like thesE: https://www.amazon.com/Super-Bird-Creations-3-Inch-Crinkle/dp/B002ABLDXA?ref_=bl_dp_s_web_17750466011 he'll warm up to you again. patience and love!

Well i know they like bells but i guess I could show you what my guys have (I'm away so I'll provide links instead of pics) They like to climb all over this and mine go crazy over things like this you might want to get a ladder or too, they can climb on it, and it's pretty much were my older tiel likes to go sleep.

Edit: pretty much anything they can chew without getting hurt, also they'll be scared of it at first but they'll get used to it.

Thank you! Not sure if you’re in the US but I got this one from amazon Super Bird Creations SB747 Bright... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JKXUDMI?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share. So far he hasn’t had any issues getting stuck and he loves to lay down on it.

I've got one. We've had it about a week now, and it's my GCC's best friend. He loves this, plays with it every day. Worth every penny.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RMF35GK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1#customerReviews

spiral bird rope

bendy bird rope

wooden bridge

Sputnik/space pod

foraging toy

wooden climbing platforms

2-pack lava ledges

foraging wheel

Also a good idea might be to look up some rat safe treat recipes and make a little ratty goodie bag for them (banana chips, oats, dried pasta, certain seeds, etc.)

Yeah, probably don't change things around much this early! Getting him comfortable with you will take some time, and making things different constantly would probably make that harder.

Some of the most successful foraging toys for us: these rotating cups, this simpler one... [this slightly stretchy one] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CCQLIU) is good for sticking a few snap peas and chunks of apple into. Our bird isn't super into shreddable forage toys like these pineapples, but I know a lot of birds are.

We also do things like wrap a grape or apple chunk in a scrap of brown Kraft paper, then clothespin it to the inside of her cage.

Lol that sounds like my bird! We buy bird kebabs in bulk for him to shred. He's weirdly picky about the stuff he likes to shred; he'll attack some toys and ignore others.

I'm just so excited, meeting another cherry head owner! They are truly special birds :)

I purchased this a while ago and my guys seems to like it ok: ARONICO Aglet Heaven Shoelace Bird Play Ring, Small https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HZAD9MO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NTmvCbW8HCNJ3

I had no clue about the dangers and about a month ago I read all the horrors stories and felt sick over it. I threw away the hut, and I have a much better conscience. Honestly, my birb didn’t sleep in hers, she sleeps on her swing, but I’ve seen people in my bird group rave about the sea grass huts as a similar and safe alternative. Here’s the highest rated one, but you can look around and find one that’s the best size for your birds. Prevue Pet Products Naturals Sea Grass Bird & Small Animal Snuggle Hut 62811 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012V9QPGU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_qzo8Bb68387HC

This is Rufus

I got him...I have no idea how long ago. He was 3 and it was about 7 years ago. Maybe longer. But he's my best friend. He can fly, and I never lock him in his cage unless I'm gone for a long time because if he gets bored, he gets destructive. This morning, I woke up to an adorable screech. He had walked from his cage to the windowsill, slid down the lamp onto my desk, grabbed a pen from my pen jar and sat on my mug chewing it and waiting for me to wake up. He also will fly into my drapes when he's bored...not to mention opening doors and walking out into the kitchen to hang out with someone.

What I'd get him is a tossup between this perch because he needs another in his 2nd cage and this toy.

I also have ducklings. Aren't they cute? Their names are Caspar and Valentina, and week 3 of having them and they've grown exponentially. I personally think that the dictionary definition of happiness should be redefined to "Ducklings in a puddle of water." But that's just me.

I picked up a few new toys and then another water dish. I recently broke his dish plastic dish and it’s a perfect time to grab another metal one. So far he’s been bouncing all over his cage with excitement :)

Booda Byrdy Bush

Rope Perch

Shaggy Kabob

My sun loves this, it makes a mess, but it makes him happy!

Female birds love to chew on wood, and they make special toys for that made out of shreddable wood called kabobs. I keep my birds supplied with them, because if they use one up and i don't replace it, they start chewing up their perches. But as long as they have a kabob, that's all they'll chew. Keeps them busy all day.

Amazon link

Hmm. It sounds like you're doing what you can. What time do they usually get to sleep? Do you cover them at night?



You may want to try switching out the hut with a soft and open sided platform. I use a sisal hammock thing and hang some bird safe fabric from the top of the cage.



What my bird sleeps on:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JKXUDMI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_.RZszbXXJZED0

Not sure where you're from, but here's the Amazon.ca link for it. Comes in a couple sizes. My budgies and my lovebirds enjoy them.

Also, we're fairly certain that Blue is a lady budgie

So he sounds a lot like mine, then! Sooo I would suggest something meant for shredding ( maybe like this ) and/or something a little hardier ( like this ). I haven't bought those specific toys, but I have bought many similar to that second one and Mattie absolutely has a blast with them and they manage to last about a week, which is nice.

I have a bird toy on my list.


Super Bird Creations SB541 Crinkle Crinkle Little Star https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002ABLDXA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hgp3DbVTQAMJ2

You can't really discourage chewing on stuff with budgies, since it's such a strong instinct for them. I would suggest getting her something appropriate to chew on like these bird kabobs, and redirect her to them if she starts chewing on something inappropriate.

1. Take him to a vet, preferably one with parrot experience
   
   
2. Feed him pellets as the main diet. Fresh veggies and fruits are ok, but seeds and millet should be a treat.
   
   
3. May want to use rope perches for his feetsies: https://www.amazon.com/Aspen-Booda-Corporation-BBX56134-Medium/dp/B003WRHTG6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1522159965&sr=8-3&keywords=rope+perches
   
   
4. Patience is key for untamed birds. I would spend a lot of time in the same room with the door open until he gets used to you and walking around.

Haha. I'm kind of at a loss for chickens and bees...but parrots I can work with.

This is neat. It has a mirror and buttons that they can push that talk and as such encourage talking. http://www.amazon.com/Jungle-Talk-Play-Phone-Large/dp/B000UJURY0/ref=sr_1_8?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1345483594&sr=1-8

This hangs in their cage so that they can work at getting the treats out. http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Foraging-Systems-Sphere-Diameter/dp/B001MWZF7S/ref=sr_1_3?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1345483594&sr=1-3

Did you try any of the chewable bird kabob toys? I got this for my budgie that wouldn’t stop plucking and it works perfectly:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002FP1W0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_zXIOAb9GYJQSW
You can also get a bird pacifier for them to pluck and groom. I have this one:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0034UHCSQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_.ZIOAbWJC0ZYJ
Just press it in between the bars of your cage, twist it and it’s secured. It also comes with refills.

A cuttle bone isn't really a toy, it's a dietary supplement. Do they have anything they can shred apart, like a paper pinata, wicker balls, or a bird kabob? Is their cage large enough that they can fly from one side to the other, or do they get around just by hopping and climbing? Do they get any time out of the cage to fly around? Budgies get naughty when they can't blow off enough energy, either by flying or chewing (or both).

I leave the boing on the top -- Mangogh has only recently started showing interest in what's on there. Now, he climbs up and down the pole, as well as the boing.

I got the boing from Amazon, though I'm not certain that's the exact one I've got. He also has one inside his cage.

I'm thinking of the thick, but shape-able rope perches. Amazon sized. They have a inner wire core so can be set-up in different ways to fit the cage. Multi-stranded heavy duty. Your guy isn't likely to chew through it.

Here's an example (link)... https://www.amazon.com/Jusney-Perches-Parrot-inches-Bungee/dp/B074WNXJTV

I have the same one for my Hahn's. He loves it!

Amazon Link

I've only had her for about 2 weeks, but she likes both the chewable and real wood perches and her foraging pineapple.

Regular toys, this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002DZMC3S/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here's how her cage is now: http://i.imgur.com/wfEsqrL.jpg

I buy mine a ton of yucca chips. He also loves that ring with a bunch of shoelaces with aglets: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HZAD9MO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4yDUCbVS69ZSA

My IRN likes both of these, especially the sphere:
Option 1 and
Option 2

We used to have a happy hut, until he decided to destroy it (practically overnight). We since switched to a sea grass hut that he enjoyed until the spring and then destroyed it as well. At least we didn't have to worry about him ingesting fabric or getting tangled in it though.

This is what we now have:
Prevue Hendryx Pet Products Naturals Sea Grass Bird and Small Animal Snuggle Hut https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B012V9QPGU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_nxsVBb4WQC59D

Sure! https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Foraging-Systems-Sphere-Diameter/dp/B001MWZF7S/ref=sr_1_23?ie=UTF8&qid=1495214434&sr=8-23&keywords=small+parrot+foraging+toy

My budgies are shredders, they tear everything up, hence every 2-3 months or so, I get them a 5 bucks shredding toy from the pet store made from bamboo, paper and wood. It keeps them away from shredding their perches and food bowls. Something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Super-Bird-Creations-3-Inch-Crinkle/dp/B002ABLDXA/ref=sr_1_6?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1452969182&sr=1-6

This one on Amazon is what I have and they love it. Fits the Oxbow adult rat triangles as well as big chunks of carrot and celery with no problem. The holes are big enough that they can chew a chunk off of anything that's too big.

I have a Grey who gets 90% of his food from foraging toys:

I use this , but he did figure out how to get the middle screw out, so I had to replace it]

This is my Grey's favorite. It took him a while to figure it out, but once he did, he goes crazy over this. I had to really tighten the screws so he has to put a lot of effort into rotating the levels. I use this for his favorite treats and it keeps him going for hours

I highly recommend both of these.

It's natural for budgies and other parrots to chew. You don't want to discourage her, you want to deter her from chewing certain things. Just as you deter a cat from scratching your furniture by providing a scratching post, you provide your budgie with toys it can destroy.

http://www.amazon.com/Wesco-Original-Bird-Kabob-Shreddable/dp/B0002FP1W0/ref=pd_bxgy_petsupplies_img_y

I gave my budgies the above. Two days later I found my blue budgie covered in the remains of the toy. She had a blast chewing it.

They are called bird kabobs. I purchased a pack of them on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Wesco-Original-Bird-Kabob-Shreddable/dp/B0002FP1W0

You know who I think really deserves something? /u/schmin. This would be a little something for schmin and her cat.

I dont think this is the exact toy but I have a very similar swing found here

So I can be lazy and keep my cat from being lazy. =P

Seconding straw/shreddable toys. I have one of these for my tiel and she likes it, she also loves the ones like this that have the straw balls and stars that she can destroy. They don't last a super long time, but she goes nuts for them.