As pine trees are popping up in many homes in preparation for Christmas, it is important that parrot owners know that Christmas trees (real and fake) do not make good play areas for their birds.
Cut branches from wreaths or trees should not be used as foraging material or toys. Pine needles in particular are sharp, not easily digestible, and may contain saps and residues that can be irritating to their eyes, skin, and digestive system.
Some trees may be sprayed with chemicals and flame retardants.
Other concerns can be lights, which pose an electrical hazard for birds that like to chew.
Ornaments can also be knocked down and broken, and sometimes older or metal ornaments can pose a heavy metal toxicity risk if a parrot decides to chew on it.
Fake snow aerosols can be harmful for bird respiratory systems, and toxic if ingested.
Tinsels and ribbons can be a health hazard if chewed or ingested.
Please keep yourself and your birds safe this holiday season!
