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love-birds toys

two LovebirdsLorries parrots standing on a stick

Toys don’t just amuse or entertain the birds; they encourage the physical activity they need to stay fit and healthy. Remember, they’re not built to stay cooped up in a cage. Even though they can’t fly free without your supervision, they can at least play—and get a good bit of exercise in the process.

Most love birds will enjoy sitting in a swing. Get the cockatiel swings, which are about 6 inches and the perfect size for these small birds. They will also like ladders and the bamboo rings, which will allow them to climb and hop, and show off a few acrobatic skills (like hanging upside down).

A word of warning: love birds love to chew. So be very careful when you choose toys. Are there any loose strings or small parts that can accidentally break off? Are there sharp edges that can scratch its cheeks? Is the material sturdy? Will it break? Even if love birds are small, they need toys that are big and strong enough to withstand their relentless chewing. Small toys designed for budgies and parakeets just won’t work. Instead, head for selections meant for cockatiels and small parrots.

The strongest materials are wood, acrylic, sisal, leather and rawhide. You can get hanging toys, but make sure the strings aren’t so long that they can accidentally entangle or strangle your pet. It is best to avoid cotton ropes, which tend to ravel. You should also make sure the material isn’t toxic. Metal toys can contain zinc, lead or other poisonous substances.

Love birds also enjoy bells. Just avoid the ones with holes, which can trap a beak or a claw. Of course, the larger the bell, the better—remember, your pet is very likely going to try to swallow it!

You can also buy baby toys, or use the items in your own home! Love birds will enjoy playing peek-a-boo with the cardboard toys from paper towel rolls, or chewing on plain cardboard. (Avoid anything with ink, which can be toxic, or can stain feathers.) They also like playing with pasta shapes.

Always supervise a bird when you first introduce a toy. This will help guarantee that your bird will not accidentally destroy it or choke on it. You should also check the toy periodically for signs that it will fall apart. AS you get to know your pet you will see which toys they will like and use safely.