Perch Size Guide

One Size does not fit all.

Foot sizes will vary within each classification of bird, i.e. not every Blue Fronted Amazon will have the same foot span, a bit like us humans so observe your bird on their perch.  

Having spent weeks trying to colate information on perch sizes, all we could conclude is that there is no definitive list and information found is often contradictive. We are in the process however, of trying to put together a responsible guide with the help of Avian Vets so in the meantime please use the information on sizes as a guide only.

If you can supply us with your Parrots foot span, then we can work out the perfect sizing for you. Your Avian Vet should be more than happy to help with this.

Roosting: For roosting there seems to be a recommendation that a 75-percent wrap around figure, is ideal. This factors in elements such as optimal comfort, secure gripping and foot stress.  Your parrot’s feet should be able to go around the perch and grasp it comfortably. The forward-facing toes should not overlap the backward-facing toes at all. In fact, there should be a little space between the toes when the parrot is perched comfortable.

"Our Ernie" has a footspan from longest front to longest back talon of 8cm, with a 75% wrap around his ideal roosting perch would be 3.4cm, "Storm" our White faced Tiel's foot span is 3.8cm giving an ideal roosting diam of 1.6cm

Preening: It is important to also provide perches which are slightly smaller and larger than the ideal Roosting Perch. This lets the bird’s feet rest and grasp in varying positions.

Perch Types: Natural tree branches are consistently mentioned as being better than the wooden dowels normally supplied when the cage is purchased. Because of the uneven shape of natural branches, the bird is not always putting pressure on the same part of the foot when he stands. They promote foot exercise and the change in size and shape will also encourage active use of different muscles.  It’s good to supply varied perch types.

Perch placement:  Place the perches so they do not inhibit bird movement or cause damage to the feathers as the bird moves around the cage. Perches should be placed so the bird's tail will not touch the side of the cage when the bird is sitting on the perch.  Give access to food, water and toys but  avoid placing perches directly over food and water dishes.

We will classify the perches from Extra Small to Extra Large and show optimal roosting and preening but again please only use this as a guide.  We have not found a definitive list of the perfect recommended perch sizes and information found is often contradictive. So please, observe and know your bird and their preferences.

If you require a particular diameter or specific length then please e-mail us the details and we will be happy to help.

Multi Packs of varied perch sizes will also be available, which is an easy way for you to see which your bird prefers. If not listed just e-mail us and we will be happy to put a set together to suit your bird and cage type.