Parrots in the wild are very busy creatures. Locating food, water and nesting
sites consumes much of their time. Socializing and grooming also keeps them
busy. When we assume responsibility for their needs in a captive situation, we
provide their food, water, and nestboxes, which virtually eliminates most of
their natural activities. We've all seen the problems which boredom can cause in
our pet birds such as feather plucking, screaming, and other undesirable
behavior. TOYS TO THE RESCUE! Most of the toys made specifically for parrots are
quite safe. Many of us also like to give our birds quality children's toys. Even
used baby toys can be sterilized and hung in cages and playpens.
By observing a few basic precautions, our birds can be safely entertained and stimulated for many enjoyable hours. Eclectus parrots especially enjoy ropes and swings, which brings up an important word of caution; always make sure there are no loose strings or material to entangle your bird's toes or feet! Eclectus toys need not be "macaw proof" but plastic toys should be sturdy enough to withstand normal beak pressure without splintering into dangerously sharp pieces. Infant toys usually are not as beak-proof as toys made for toddlers and older children. Even small stuffed animal toys can be given to parrots if there are no small parts to be removed and possibly swallowed.
We must be ever diligent in preventing lead poisoning in our birds. Some of the old style bell toys for parrots use toxic lead clappers. Eclectus parrots enjoy and easily master the musical toys made for birds. Toys which incorporate food, such as millet sprays threaded into the wood blocks bored with holes for nut treats, are fun and rewarding for birds. Wooden toys which can be disintegrated by busy beaks are also appreciated by our feathered friends. We shouldn't consider a toy chewed to shreds as a sign of destructiveness. I believe that a "toy destroyed is a toy enjoyed"! We may not be able to bring the rainforest to our Eclectus, but with a little caution and imagination, we can create a safe and stimulating environment where they always can find something safe and fun to do!
