DIY Bird Toys: Fun and Safe Enrichment Ideas

Let’s face it: birds are smart, curious, and full of energy. They’re not the type to sit around twiddling their feathers all day. No, your feathered friend needs mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

But buying toys can get expensive, and let’s be honest—sometimes the store-bought options just don’t cut it. That’s where DIY bird toys come in! With a little creativity and some household items, you can create fun, safe, and budget-friendly toys that’ll keep your bird entertained for hours. Let’s dive in!

(1)  The Basics – Why DIY Toys Are Awesome

Why DIY Toys?

• Cost-Effective: Save money by using items you already have at home.
• Customizable: Tailor toys to your bird’s preferences and needs.
• Eco-Friendly: Repurpose old items instead of throwing them away.

Safety First

• Non-Toxic Materials: Use only bird-safe materials like untreated wood, paper, and natural fibers.
• Avoid Small Parts: Ensure all parts are too large to be swallowed.
• Supervise Playtime: Always supervise your bird with new toys to ensure they’re safe.

(2)  Chew Toys – The Beak Workout

Why Chew Toys Are Essential

Chewing helps keep your bird’s beak in shape and provides mental stimulation.

DIY Chew Toy Ideas

• Cardboard Roll: Use empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls. Stuff them with treats or paper for extra fun.
• Wooden Blocks: String untreated wooden blocks onto a piece of rope or leather cord.
• Paper Strips: Cut strips of paper and tie them together to create a shreddable toy.

Pro Tip

Rotate chew toys regularly to keep things fresh and interesting.

(3)  Foraging Toys – The Treasure Hunt

Why Foraging Toys Are Great

Foraging toys mimic natural behaviors and keep your bird mentally engaged.

DIY Foraging Toy Ideas

• Muffin Tin Game: Place treats in a muffin tin and cover each cup with a tennis ball or cardboard piece.
• Paper Bag Surprise: Fill a paper bag with shredded paper and treats, then fold the top for your bird to explore.
• Egg Carton Hideout: Place treats inside an empty egg carton and close it for your bird to open.

Pro Tip

Use your bird’s favorite treats to make the foraging experience even more rewarding.

(4)  Swinging and Climbing Toys – The Gym

Why Swinging and Climbing Toys Matter

These toys provide physical exercise and help keep your bird active.

DIY Swinging and Climbing Toy Ideas

• Rope Perch: Tie a piece of bird-safe rope between two points in the cage to create a swinging perch.
• Ladder: Use popsicle sticks or wooden dowels to create a small ladder.
• Swing: Create a swing using a piece of wood and some rope or leather cord.

Pro Tip

Ensure all materials are securely fastened to prevent accidents.

(5)  Puzzle Toys – The Brain Game

Why Puzzle Toys Are Important

Puzzle toys challenge your bird’s problem-solving skills and provide mental stimulation.

DIY Puzzle Toy Ideas

• Treat Ball: Use a small, hollow plastic ball with holes. Fill it with treats and let your bird figure out how to get them out.
• Stacking Cups: Place treats under stacking cups and let your bird figure out how to lift them.
• Bead Maze: String beads onto a piece of wire or rope and attach it to the cage for your bird to move around.

Pro Tip

Start with simple puzzles and gradually increase the difficulty as your bird gets the hang of it.

(6)  Conclusion: A Happy Bird is a Busy Bird

Creating DIY bird toys is a fun and rewarding way to keep your feathered friend entertained and engaged. With a little creativity and some household items, you can provide endless hours of fun and mental stimulation for your bird.

Remember, every bird is different, so take the time to understand your bird’s unique preferences and needs. And don’t forget to enjoy the journey—watching your bird play and explore is one of the most rewarding experiences a bird parent can have. So, grab some supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get crafting. After all, a happy bird is a busy bird, and a busy bird makes for a very happy human.